Club Night Report

Wednesday 14th December 2022

Club Night Photos for Wednesday 14th December 2022 - Club Christmas Party

Photos by Arthur Kingdon and observations by Paul Kohn

We had a number of members missing due to weather and circumstance beyond our control, which inevitably meant more sausage rolls all round for those fortunate enough to be there and an even better chance for my Christmas decoration to win the competition; in the event I am afraid I was pipped at the post by Bob Wells with his superb bells ringing in our ears!

The evening was a great success for the 31 people there (25 member and 6 guests), was most enjoyable and very informative. Considering the weather outside at -7 degrees, ice and snow the turn-out showed either that there is a love of party food, the demonstrators were the most extraordinary people with magnetic personalities, or woodturning has a dedicated following in North Wiltshire. The food was wonderfully prepared, presented and enjoyed by all who tucked in with gusto as soon as allowed. David and Louise Hawes did a superb job organising everything and taught me something new at the same time, a spoon in the glass stops it shattering when you pour in the hot mulled wine, thanks Louise.

Demonstrations had to wait while competitions were judged. Tim Mortimer, Bob Wells and Arthur Kingdon put up a hell of a fight but were out-muscled by Roger Hoare who showed us with his large segmented bowl what patience, years of practise, the choice of good wood and glue and a wonderful shape can produce, well done Roger. He was awarded the Ian Hooker trophy for Best Item of the year. I have mentioned that Bob Wells won the Christmas themed competition, congratulations to Bob although there was a certain gnashing of teeth on both Mike Crawshaw and Paul Kohn's part on being out-performed (this was obviously a very competitive evening).

There was no competition, however, for the Secret Santa, it was walk up with a palpitating heart, having had your number called, excitement beyond description, a quick shake of a couple of the offerings and walk away with the prize. A wonderful mug and socks in my case, going to be very useful in my motorhome the mug that is, thanks to my giver whoever you are.

When it comes to demonstrations you would be hard-pressed to outdo both Bill and Dave in their respective fields of expertise. Dave Branscombe polished with real gusto showing the difference between various waxes and ways of applying them what can be achieved; a very smooth operator indeed, thanks Dave. Bill Savage on the other hand went in all guns blazing with his Ashley Isles thread-making tool and a ready prepared bit of box wood to make another exciting acorn style box that screwed together perfectly when finished. The hours of practice well spent I would say Bill. I shall be attempting it myself in the near future, having been expertly tutored by you, thank you.

Well, as I have said a most enjoyable evening was had by all, our thanks must go to the Committee and organisers of said event, it was well worthwhile. It brings to mind that old joke - A five-year-old was lost, so went up to a policeman crying his eyes out and said, "I've lost my dad!". The policeman asked, "What's your dad like?" The boy replied, "Wine, women and woodturning!"

I leave the rest to your imagination…