cutting edge - institute of carpenters · july 2013 cutting edge 3 in this edition... news 4 isle...
TRANSCRIPT
July 2013
SkillBuild 2013Judge’s thoughts & feedback
Take a look at the carpentry & joinery test drawings
Lincoln College winnersAll three winners ofthe Merlane Trophy
from one college
Life AssuranceBe realistic
Do you have it?Are you adequately covered?C
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WelcomeWell, I don’t know about you, but I’m delighted to see that the sun has finally come out - hence my sunny font colour! As it’s only been a few weeks since the last edition this is a quick read, but hopefully you’ll all be up to lots over the summer to update us on in the September edition.
As we’ve updated you in previous editions, Alan Creasey FIOC has been working on behalf of the IOC in the heritage skills sector. Check out page 18 for details of their forthcoming course in October if you’re interested in up-skilling your heritage skills. There are also no fewer than 4 articles about competitions around the UK and an article about West Midlands section’s recent visit to Prime Oak and a lock manufacturer.
This month, I need to say a few “Thank You’s” as some of you have devoted much time to helping spread the IOC word over the last few months. Firstly our thanks as always go to the SkillBuild judges - this year we were represented by Trevor Eveleigh FIOC, Dave Elliott FIOC, Peter Dawson FIOC, Pat Phillips FIOC, Don Stevens FIOC and Alex Moyes FIOC who clocked up many miles between them travelling the country to judge the carpentry and joinery aspects of the competition.
You may remember that in a previous edition, we asked for your help in supporting SkillBuild and it was great to see some of you come along and help. Neil Little FIOC not only went along to support the Hastings and Lewisham events, but then went back to Hastings for their Construction events. Sadly the latter were a bit of a wash out as not all the exhibitors turned up. Whilst it wasn’t necessarily a huge success at attracting new members to the Institute, it was a great way to promote to the public how to find good carpenters. Richard Sharp MIOC also took a day off work to provide his support to promoting the IOC at the SkillBuild event at Lakes College. On behalf of the Institute, our enormous thanks go to all of you.
Between us, either Nici or I will be in the office for most of the summer holidays. Wherever possible we try to avoid taking time off together but as both of us are working mums of school children this is not always possible. This means that from 12th August to 20th August, Head Office will be closed.
I hope you all have a chance to take a break over the summer - do spare a thought for my husband who is doing a 100km sponsored kayak around the Isle of Wight at the end of August!
All that remains for me to say is.... Until the next time, happy reading!
Sharon Hutchings17th July 2013
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2 CUTTING EDGE July 2013
Keep in touch
Cutting EdgeEDITORIAL0844 879 [email protected]
Editor: Sharon HutchingsThanks this month to William Avery, Trevor Eveleigh FIOC, Neil Little FIOC, James Murray FIOC, Bill Rex FIOC, David Winson FIOC, David Elliott FIOC, Alan Creasey FIOC, John Briner, Helen Ward, Keith Laurent & Nici Simpson.
Cutting Edge is the journal of the Institute of Carpenters and is issued to IOC members only by the Institute of Carpenters (IOC), 32 High Street, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6EA. The material may include opinions, recommendations or other content from third
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Before relying on the material referred to in this newsletter, users should independently verify the accuracy, completeness and relevance for their purposes and obtain any appropriate professional advice.
Links to other websites are included for the user’s convenience and do not constitute an endorsement of the material on those sites, or any associated product or service.
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July 2013 CUTTING EDGE 3
In this edition...News
4 Isle of Wight kayak adventure A rather challenging adventure is happening this summer!
5 Reduce your risk of injury IOC President William Avery asks how you’d cope if your income stopped the moment you were injured?
6 News round up Thanks from Trevor Eveleigh FIOC and a warm welcome to all of our new members
19 A double peep into the past The latest re-publication from the IBICC journal - January 1923
Member news
7 Oak buildings and lock gates Bill Rex FIOC brings us news of the West Midlands’ recent section visits
11 A date for your diary - 7th December 2013 John Dodge MIOC will give an overview of the work he did when he worked on the Cutty Sark
Member benefits
10 “Nothing is certain except death and taxes” Keith Laurent from Courtprice addresses the difficult question of life insurance
18 Heritage wood occupations - specialist up-skilling programme Details of their next course in October
20 Regional IOC contact details Email, phone or post, there’s a way to contact our regional officers.
Competition Corner
8 15th June 2013 saw the 37th Merlane Trophy competition take place David Winson FIOC updates us on this year’s competition
12 SkillBuild 2013 Joinery Competition David Elliott FIOC shares his thoughts with us on this year’s joinery competition
14 SkillBuild 2013 Carpentry Competition See this year’s regional heats competition test piece drawings
16 North West section Carpenters’ Craft Competition As David Elliott FIOC told us - the support from Accrington & Rossendale College “was magic”
17 The Worshipful Company of Joiners and Ceilers’ Annual Award An overview of the Worshipful Company of Joiners and Ceilers and their Annual Awards for 2013 and 2014
Isle of Wight Kayak Adventure
Towards the end of 2012, one of my friends lost his battle with cancer. Paul was one of the kindest, funniest, caring and most loving people you could ever wish to meet. He lit up a room just by being in it and, when he opened his mouth, could entertain without even trying. He made you feel special about yourself with the smallest of comments and wouldn’t let you brush aside a compliment. I can still hear his belly laugh and feel the bear hugs he gave when he could tell you needed it.
Paul passed away at the end of 2012 having spent his final days at the Hospice of St Francis in Berkhamsted. We know how important it was to Paul and his family that he had a dignified and peaceful end to his life, and the hospice played a large part in making that happen.
Towards the end of August this year (tides permitting), my husband and three others are making an epic trip around the Isle of Wight. Ahead of them they have 100km and 3 days of paddling – not to mention blood, sweat and hopefully not too many tears!
Their journey will begin at 6am from Shanklin on the Friday and will finish 34km later at Freshwater Bay. Day 2 takes them to Cowes via The Needles with the added challenge that this is where the English Channel and The Solent meet so could be quite choppy! Then on the final day they will travel a mere 30km along from Cowes and return to Shanklin – rather them than me! They’ll be supported by a land crew and will be followed every stroke of the way by William (yes the IOC President!), his wife & daughter in the ‘rescue’ boat.
So here’s where you come in. The Hospice of St Francis is a registered charity and receives just 20% of the £4.7million they need each year from the NHS – the rest has to come from fundraising. Ben and his crew want to raise as much money as they can towards supporting the on-going care of other terminally ill people to help ensure that they too can have a peaceful and dignified end to their life.
If you would like to support them on their madcap adventure, Ben and I would be hugely grateful and thank you in advance for whatever you can give. Please visit Ben’s JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/BDH-IOW-Kayak-Adventure to donate.
Normal service will resume in the next edition and all that remains is for me to wish you all a fabulous summer break.
Sharon Hutchings IOC Admin Manager
Map courtesy of www.visitisleofwight.co.uk/towns-and-villagesPhoto of The Needles courtesy of www.redfunnel.co.uk/island-guide/places-to-visit/isle-of-wight-historic-sites/the-needles-old-battery/
4 CUTTING EDGE July 2013
As it’s not been that long since the last edition and therefore my last update, I’m afraid I’m a little lacking in inspiration this month as things are just ticking along at the moment. So I hope you’ll forgive me using this space for something dear to my heart.
Reduce your risk of injury
On the 24th June I got up from the floor where I had been for some time working on a computer in the office and half way up, my right leg jammed and since then to now (10th July ) has been of no practical use and the cause of considerable discomfort. Our local A&E, once they had established that I had not broken a bone, lost interest and sent me home with a pain killer. As a result, all activity of a physical nature has stopped which of course would be disastrous if the ability to walk, climb, lift, carry or any other such activity was essential to my work. Fortunately, it is only the renovation of our house which has come to a halt in the short term. The solution to my problem was an MRI scan which has shown that I have damaged a cartilage which is going to be fixed on 24th July. I am fortunate to be able to pay to speed up the process, but why was I not given an MRI scan which took 15 minutes followed by an instant diagnosis with a date for the required key hole surgery by our local A&E? How would you cope if your income stopped the moment the injury occured? How long would the NHS take to get around to the treatment that you need? Already what I have written looks like something that an insurance salesman would love to hear, because of course one solution to speed the process is the ability to pay for the treatment privately and as members of the IOC there are preferential rates available with HMCA, but there is more that you can do to prevent such injuries. My knee went because it was weakened many years ago by a skiing accident caused by incorrectly fitted equipment and I did not think before trying to get up. I have got away with it so far because I was advised at the time to keep my leg muscles in good shape to support the joint - I will be a regular at the gym to recover the lost strength as soon as possible. So switch to the work environment, the lesson is to use the correct, properly maintained tools for the job, particularly access and protection equipment, and make sure that you keep yourself in appropriate physical and an alert mental condition for the work that you do. All this costs almost nothing and the risk of injury will be greatly reduced. On a slightly different note, in the last edition, mention was made in the “Bits and pieces” section that the IOC had been contacted twice by Trading Standards officers. On behalf of the IOC I have given witness statements to clarify that the tradesmen in question
are not members and therefore should not be using our logo. The IOC has also been contacted recently by a customer who wishes to complain about work carried out by an IOC member. While the IOC will not get directly involved in the matter, the board does take a keen interest in the matter as we want to ensure that the standards that are dear to the IOC and the commitments made by members when they join are maintained.
Of course, in life, mistakes can occur and there are always two points of view but if a complaint is dealt with in a fair and professional way then usually the matter can be resolved in a mutually acceptable way. So if you find yourself at the wrong end of a complaint then do not hesitate to give head office a call for a chat.
William AveryIOC President
William wrote this article before knowing what the rest of the content Cutting Edge was so his reference to insurance salesmen is a coincidence!
If you would like to find out more about the preferential rates from HMCA please go to www.hmca.co.uk or check out the article in the March 2012 edition of the newsletter on our website.
How would you cope if your income stopped the moment you were injured? I have had a blunt reminder of how important it is to look after our most important asset - namely our bodies.
July 2013 CUTTING EDGE 5
News round up
Don’t forget that you have free access to a range of information from training to data sheets at www.woodcampus.co.uk.
Have you moved? Have you changed bank?Do we have your up to date details?
Without them we can’t look after your IOC Membership and your membership may expire or your card go missing.
We don’t want that to happen so please email us at [email protected] or call us on 01442 820585 if you have any changes to make.
Welcome to our new members
FellowRichard Kembrey FIOC (East Midlands)Darren Drake FIOC (Greater London, South, Essex, Surrey)Lee Magee FIOC (North East Northern)Lee Cook FIOC (Greater London, South, Essex, Surrey)William Kirkbright FIOC (North East Northern)
MemberLuke Lewis MIOC (West Midlands)
StudentThomas French (Greater London, South, Essex, Surrey)Andrew Nicolaou (North East Northern)Dominik Ziomek (North East Northern)Marie Cook (Greater London, South, Essex, Surrey) It’s also great to see that another college has joined us and we extend a warm welcome to Sunderland College, their College Liaison Officer Bill Kirkbright FIOC and of course their wood trades students.
Pathway to Construction event, Alexander Park Hastings, an event with support from Sussex Coast College.
Four members of the Institute; Neil Little FIOC (Kent); Jason Howe FIOC (Durham); Richard Sharpe MIOC (Cumbria) and Lewis McKenzie FIOC (Leicestershire) have given time to talk to people about the Institute of Carpenters at Pathway to Construction; Regional SkillBuild events and the Merlane Trophy competition, we thank them for their time and enthusiasm.
The Institute is at it’s best when members are actively involved and more members are meeting and taking part - from organising the AGM Exhibition, judging at competitions, meeting at Section and Membership Groups, some helping to organise activities, and being part of the management team in our Regions. There are many small roles that don’t demand too much time and help the Institute and its members. If you would like to know about opportunities in your region please do get in touch (details below).
Pathway to Construction is an annual event supported by a number of organisations. James Murray from Sussex Coast College invited the Institute to be part of this event (also a family day out) on 22nd June 2013. If you are interested in this event in future years or other events in the Hastings area please contact James Murray at [email protected]. James is also the Regional Membership Officer for the post code areas of BN, RH and TN in the South East Region of the IOC.
Trevor Eveleigh FIOC with much thanks to Neil Little FIOC & James Murray FIOC for their inputIOC Membership Chairman | T: 01268 772383 | M: 07790 302127 | E: [email protected]
Disappointingly the weather was not good for the day, but Neil came well prepared with van, gazebo and advertising display!
6 CUTTING EDGE July 2013
July 2013 CUTTING EDGE 7
Oak buildings and lock gates
Members and friends of the West Midlands Section recently attended a visit to Prime Oak Building Ltd. and then onto a workshop making canal lock gates.
The visit began with a convoy of us travelling though country lanes in the wilds of South Staffordshire. Prime Oak make solid oak framed buildings to order and these range from garden rooms, orangeries, offices, conservatories to barns and stables which are delivered throughout the world.
We entered Prime Oak through electric sliding gates and drove in to a sight we will not forget for a long time. There were structures made of large oak beams everywhere all surrounded by immaculate flowerbeds and ornamental trees and shrubs, overlooking beautiful countryside.
We were met and welcomed by one of the two company directors, who I recognised to be a student I knew from Dudley College over twenty years ago! We were shown the magnificent show house built almost entirely
of oak (including the furniture) and there were over twenty rooms.
In the spotless machine shop we were shown huge oak beams moving slowly through CNC machines, having mortices punched in them, holes drilled and stop chamfers being worked on, with no one needed to look after the machines. We moved through the workshop and watched various sections, such as walls, floors and roofs being assembled all with traditional joints, usually fixed by dowelling. These structures should last hundreds of years.
In the design office, dozens of computers were producing marvellous coloured drawings and sketches to customers’ requirements. The drawings many of us used to do on a blackboard or copy off seemed like ancient history. The Director explained that the Company employs 50 people in the workshops and 100 sub-contractors erecting their buildings.
When I left I couldn’t help thinking what a difference it would have
been if this Director on leaving school had attended university instead of being trained as a carpenter. I disagree entirely with the present day policy of 50% of school leavers going to universities, which results in many industries being denied the clever workforce the UK needs.
We left Prime Oak for a pub lunch and then onto a workshop near Wolverhampton where canal lock gates are made. This is one of only two such workshops in England and employs four carpenters. This is part of the Canal and River Trust and the second workshop is in West Yorkshire employing eight carpenters.
As at Prime Oak, massive pieces of oak were being used but the production system was totally different. We learned that there are about 3,200 canal locks in the UK all of different shapes and sizes. Each lock has two pairs of gates which need replacing every 20 to 25 years.
These twelve carpenters make about a hundred pairs of gates a year at a cost of around £30,000
each. A pair of gates for a 7 foot wide lock will require nearly 200 cubic feet of oak, although many of our canals are much wider than that. The gates are made using old but very adequate machines plus lots of hand tools to prepare the timber which the workmen called “British Oak”. The finished gates are left untreated and are delivered to site to be installed by local craftsmen.
Medieval locks were all constructed of timber, then later masonry walls were added. The early type of gates were of a vertical guillotine design, but the double mitre gate, we see today was invented by Leonardo da Vinci and far superior so it quickly became universally adopted.
We thoroughly enjoyed our day seeing and smelling oak - firstly used to create beautiful buildings and then used for the massive lock gates we see along our canals.
W.H. Rex FIOCWest Midlands Section
http://www.primeoak.co.ukhttp://canalrivertrust.org.uk
15th June 2013 saw the 37th
The East Midlands Section has successfully run the annual Merlane Trophy Competition since 1977, and during its time it has been hosted by virtually all the colleges within the East Midlands Region.
From Boston to Derby and Leicester to Grimsby (and recently extended to include Sheffield College and Moulton College), the competition, founded by Nottingham-based George Merlane, provides friendly rivalry amongst the colleges as their chosen students compete in a four-hour skills project.
The project itself is bench-based but covers both carpentry and joinery in a wide variety of differing forms from roofing to floor trimming; from gates to serving hatches – in fact the selection of the project is often as fiercely competitive as the competition; never quite to blows but not far off!
This year’s competition was held on Saturday 15th June at Moulton College near Northampton. The competitors were met by East Midlands Section Chairman Russ Dean MIOC, from Sheffield College and Section Secretary Andy Eato MIOC from ARG Mansfield (one of our stalwart sponsors).
Nine of the thirteen entered competitors (one withdrew
before as he turned out to be two years over the age limit of 21) and their support teams arrived bright and early on a nice clear day, which was a total contrast to last year when 22 candidates tuned up under rather dull and overcast skies! The turnout was a little disappointing as a tremendous amount of effort goes into organising and running the competition by so many. We have not as yet met since the day to discuss the reasons in detail but some observers on the day suggested distance was one problem as many had to be en route at the crack of dawn. Other observations included the complexity of the job as
candidates were unable to ‘relate’ to the task - the general economic climate also got some of the blame.
After a short briefing, the competition was underway by 10:10am, just a few minutes late.
This test piece was a section of shuttering to form a column, which included a splayed hopper at the top and two yokes. It was designed to take four hours from a pre-set out rod that the competitors are allowed to prepare beforehand and bring with them on the day. It was ‘designed’ to ensure as many competitors as possible finished the project; unfortunately, the complexity of the task and the amount of work required proved a little too much and the time was extended by half an hour to allow some degree of completion.Judging, which commences immediately at the start of the competition picking up on working practices and skills along with the correct use of tools, was overseen by Head Judge Alan Beet MIOC who was ably assisted by Derek Crawford MIOC and John Hall MIOC.
When I first became involved in the competition in the mid 1990s, prizes consisted of the Merlane Trophy plus £15 to the winner, £10 to the runner-up and £5 for the third placed; it didn’t even cover the cost of the petrol used to get there and back! I know it’s the taking part that matters, but today, thanks to a dedicated team, some of whom are prodigies of George Merlane, and with tremendous
8 CUTTING EDGE July 2013
Merlane Trophy competition
support from many sponsors, the prizes run into several hundred pounds and include cash, tools and vouchers – very impressive.
A few years ago we introduced a special fourth prize, the Ernie Leach Shield, awarded to the person who approaches the project in the most methodical and workmanlike manner, demonstrates good safe working practices (including a clean working area), and also demonstrates proper choice, handling and care of their tools (the judges really do have their work cut out).
This year’s prizes were once again fantastic, despite the very difficult trading conditions we are suffering in these austere times, and our thanks go to everyone, companies and individuals alike, who kindly donated them. The prize-winners certainly needed their support teams to help carry everything away.
For the first time in memory all three placed candidates came from one college, Lincoln College: 1. First place went to Luke Pepper
(centre), 2. 2nd place was taken by Jack
Shepherd (left), 3. with Dominic Taylor taking 3rd
place (right).
The Ernie Leach Shield was awarded to Joe Parker from Sheffield College (kneeling front).
Over the years the competition has been graced by many Presidents of the Institute, Masters of the Carpenters’ Company, Chairmen of Council to name but a few. College principals and other high-ranking officers have supported the competition by opening and closing the proceedings, and presenting the prizes. This year’s prize giving, which included a Certificate of Participation for every competitor, and closing ceremony was presided over by Lindsey Johnson, Moulton College’s Assistant Principal Academic.
The East Midlands Section was also pleased to be able to welcome our recently appointed Regional Representative, Lewis McKenzie FIOC.
Moulton College provided a buffet
lunch that took place at 3pm while the judges (who take it in turn for an early lunch) marked the pieces putting the top three on display. The proceedings drew to a close at 4:30pm.
Our thanks go to our sponsors and supporters, without whom it would not be possible to run the Merlane Trophy: ARG (Mansfield) Ltd, The David Winson Organisation and The Hayway to name but a few.
Andrew Kemp MIOC, who was the very first winner of the Merlane Trophy in 1977 was also in attendance (along with his wife Linda) giving his help and support.
Next year’s competition will be held at North Lindsey College.
David Winson FIOC East Midlands Section
David is in the process of updating the Merlane Trophy slide show. Once this is done, we’ll let you know where you can see it for more information.
July 2013 CUTTING EDGE 9
1977 Merlane Trophy. Left: George Merlane and holding the cup Andrew Kemp MIOC
“Nothing is certain except
10 CUTTING EDGE July 2013
Benjamin Franklin wrote these rather appropriate words in 1789 and they are frequently repeated today to emphasise our disdain at the tax system and the Governments that impose it.
However, both issues, death and taxes, are something that advisers like myself deal with every day with our clients, just like you. Thankfully, it is predominantly to help them protect and prepare their families and businesses from the impact of an early demise and, sometimes, the impact of tax on the estate left behind.
It is true to say that most of you reading this go about your daily routine without thinking about the what-ifs, predominantly because it is somewhat depressing and some even feel there is a “tempting fate” aspect to discussing it. Unfortunately, the issue of “what happens if I die” is one of the most important considerations you have to face up to, for no one else’s benefit other than your dependents and, if applicable, your business partners.
I make no excuses for relaying a real set of events to you, to emphasise the gravity of what could happen, if the worst happens:
“John” was a Tradesmen and 45 years old. He was married with three children aged between 10 and 18. His business was doing reasonably well, his annual gross income exceeded £60,000 per annum. His wife handled the business’s paperwork and arranged his appointments, whilst he spent long hours, most weekends as well, plying his trade.
His family enjoyed at least one decent holiday each
year and their standard of living was good. However, his largest issue was their mortgage on their detached home in the north of England. He wanted to ensure this was paid off as soon as possible, so he was making overpayments to reduce the term.
Unfortunately, John suffered a heart attack and sadly died. He was only 45, after all.
Putting aside the emotional impact of this situation upon his family, it was devastating to learn that after his death, the business folded as he WAS the business. So the income stopped. In addition, the mortgage he was trying so hard to clear was still there after he died. He had no life insurance.
His wife and three children therefore were left in a financial disaster zone, with no income and a continuation of indebtedness.
Those of you that have read this through so far, and thank you for doing so, will likely have one of the following thoughts:
1. I have plenty of life insurance so I don’t have a problem!This may be the case and if so, well done. However, when was the last time it was reviewed? How much is “plenty”? What is it costing you? Could it be cheaper? Are you absolutely certain, preferably backed by the advice of a professional, that what you have in place is appropriate and sufficient?
2. It won’t happen to me, not a problem!Hopefully, it won’t happen to you. But to assume it won’t, is something of a risk to say the least. You insure your home in case you’re burgled or it burns down, you probably insure your pets and of course, your belongings on holiday. Do you not think that insuring yourself, for your family’s protection, could be higher up the priority list?
3. I can’t afford to do anything about it so will have to take that chance!That may be so, but it is often a surprise to find out how cheap life insurance can be if set up on a simplistic set-term basis. Find out first, rather than assume. This type of cover could be one of your lowest monthly outlays and yet one of the most critical.
4. I have medical issues, my premium will be too high!Most Independent Financial Advisers will have the knowledge and ability to speak to the pre-underwriting departments of many top insurers, to ascertain how they would treat an individual applying with a certain health issue. Believe it or not, each Insurer will have differing criteria for underwriting, meaning one could decline you, another could increase your premiums and another could let you
death and taxes…”
Have you taken advantage of another of your IOC benefits?
10% off for IOC Members with Discount Code CRZ88
have cover with little or even no increases. Advice is crucial, you cannot easily do this yourself. Again, don’t assume, get a professional to check it out for you.
5. I’ve thought about this before, forgot all about it!My worry is that after putting this edition of Cutting Edge down, you’ll forget about it again. That’s human nature. Please don’t – if you genuinely wish to find out more and progress something, pick up the phone now and act.
6. Good idea, but I have no idea what I need or what I will pay!That’s where a good adviser will help. Get advice, get the facts, then make your decision.
7. I have no dependents, not married, not an issue!Who are the beneficiaries of your will? (Everyone should make a will!!) These are the people who will be dealing with whatever you leave behind. Do you need to ensure some money exists to pass on? If not, yes, your need for cover is significantly lower than someone who has a family. But I would never say it is not needed whatsoever.
I cannot emphasise enough how important it is that
everybody assesses this aspect of his or her financial planning. It’s a selfless act, you are protecting those you love and care for, to make sure you do not leave a legacy of debt, mess and strife. You are ensuring they have the financial well-being to not only survive, but prosper in your absence.
I like to say that “you have a price on your head”, in the sense that if you die, your loved ones need a particular amount of money to come in to continue without you, with an acceptable quality of life. Determining that price is where an adviser can help.
Feel free to email me directly at [email protected] or call me on 0121 447 7555, whereupon I will endeavour to help you all I can.
Keith Laurent Courtprice Limited
Keith Laurent is an Independent Financial Adviser and Director of Courtprice Limited. Courtprice are Advisers and Insurers to the Institute of Carpenters.
Courtprice Limited are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Image of US 100 dollar bill adapted from U.S. Government (Wikimedia Comons [1]) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Why not put 7th December in your diary and join a Central Section meeting?
We are very fortunate in Central Section, that one of our older members John Dodge MIOC, was much involved with the Cutty Sark over many years, having started out as a Ship’s Carpenter at the age of 15 with R&H Green & Silley Weir Ltd, Ship Repairers at Millwall Dock. One of his first jobs was fixing a carving on the ship together with numerous maintenance jobs carried out on board over so many years. He also made the replacement ship’s wheel back in the 50’s, which had fortunately been removed from the ship during its complete make-over and avoided being lost in the devastating fire on the 21st May 2007. John has also climbed the rigging, how many of our members can claim that feat?! He has many an interesting tale to tell and pictures to share. Incidentally the picture shown here is of the Cutty Sark pre-fire from 1983.
John will be giving us an overview of the work he carried out on board over the years and he has many experiences to relate to us. Why not put the date in your diary now and take the opportunity to join us at The Building Crafts College in Stratford on the 7th December at 2pm? The venue itself is adjacent to Stratford Station and is itself well worthy of a visit if you have not been there before. If you need any more information then please get in touch.
Brian Streather FIOC | IOC Central Section Secretary | [email protected] | 01277 222600
July 2013 CUTTING EDGE 11
SkillBuild 2013 Joinery drawings
As you are already aware, SkillBuild 2013 heats have drawn to a close. Here David Elliott FIOC, IOC board member and SkillBuild joinery judge, gives us his thoughts on the competition.
The drawings shown are of the New Entrant and Senior Models. The New Entrant Competition project is a piece of flat framing. One side is right angles, the other has a sloping side at 10 degrees. The head also slopes at 10 degrees. The rebates and moulding were done on “Trend” mounted routers. John Tigg, CNC Manager of Trend Machinary and Cutting Tools Limited, looked after the competitors at this stage.
Observations: The competition was hard with two sloping sides but a brave attempt was made by all competitors. Lessons that could be learnt were:
The other problem was that the competitors are not used to long and short shoulders and some competitors do not practice older models, this is a big mistake. The time allowed for this model was five hours.
• the setting out on the MDF board took far too long
• the sections through the frame caused a lot of problems
• with the top and side being sloped, it caused problems with the actual shape of the tenons and competitors were not used to this at all
12 CUTTING EDGE July 2013
The Senior Competition project was a piece of flat framing with a quadrant shaped right handed head; the competitors ran their own rebates and moulds with Trend supervising the profiling of the shaped head. This was an experience a lot of the competitiors loved.
Observations: Like the New Entrants there was too much time spent setting out the models and sections - we normally reckon on 45 to 60 minutes for this process but some competitiors took up to 3 hours. Gunstock shoulders in the main were done well. This was a well tried model with some good results for some competitors. Six hours were allowed for this model.
The drawings which are on the following page are the SkillBuild 2013 Carpentry drawings and have been reproduced with the kind permission of Les Inkpen, CITB.
David Elliott FIOCIOC Board Member
July 2013 CUTTING EDGE 13
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July 2013 CUTTING EDGE 15
Carpenters’ Craft Competition
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I was pleased to be able to judge the North Western Section Carpenters’ Craft Competition at IOC member college Accrington & Rossendale on Thursday 27th June.
The event was organised by Gary Nolan FIOC who has been my contact throughout and is also the IOC’s College Liaison Officer at the college. Gary booked the Coppice Theatre at the college - essentially for the space it allowed us and because it was next door to the restaurant which was handy for cups of tea, toast and bacon sandwiches! We were fortunate enough that all four judges were also supplied with lunch.
Just after lunch, the Principal Sue Taylor also spared time to welcome us and spent time talking about the standards of the competition locally and nationally. This was enlightening and most sincerely appreciated as we know Sue is very busy.
What made the day for me and the other judges was the support from the Carpentry and Joinery staff which was magic. You were never on your own much apart from the judging periods and we were supplied with drinks all day.
I have been going to Accrington & Rossendale College for over fifteen years (maybe longer) and each time we go we get spoilt. They look after us in such a way that one wants to go back. From car park spaces to the last details of the day loading your car with models to return to the makers. A very special and successful day for participants, judges and the College. Many Congratulations go to Accrdington & Rossendal for another memorable day!
A special thank you to all the staff:• Mark Wilkinson FIOC -
Programme Area Leader for Carpentry and Joinery
• Clive Lovell FIOC - Lecturer, Assessor and SkillBuild Coach
• Mark Taylor - Lecturer and Assessor.
• Andrew Mountford - Lecturer, Assessor WBR
• Gary Nolan FIOC LCGI - Lecturer, Assessor, SkillBuild Coach, IOC College Liaison Officer
• Oscar Hope - the carpentry mascot
Dave Eilliott VP FIOCOrganising Judge for North West Section’s Carpenters’ Craft Competition, and National Judge
L to R - Gary Nolan, Mark Taylor, Andrew Mountford, Clive Lovell & Marc Wilson
The copy deadline for the September issue of Cutting Edge is Friday 6th September. Please send any articles for inclusion to:
Email:[email protected]
Post:IOC Newsletter, 32 High Street, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6EA
Phone:0844 879 7696
Joiners & Ceilers’ annual awardThe Worshipful Company of Joiners and Ceilers is one of the ancient Livery Companies of the City of London, The Worshipful Company of Joiners & Ceilers, throughout its long and continuous existence, has provided support for its craft and sought to promote excellence in joinery.
As historic documents held by the City Corporation show, the Company was already a large brotherhood of skilled craftsmen in 1269, supporting numerous apprentices. The Company controlled all aspects of the craft, regulating standards and collecting fines from those judged to have sold substandard work. Queen Elizabeth I confirmed these already ancient rights on 14th April 1571 when she granted a charter to the Company to maintain this control “in perpetuity”.
As the centuries passed these rights fell into abeyance. The Company was a founder member of the City & Guilds of London Institute and continues positively to encourage the highest craft standards, particularly in training and by sponsoring and supporting the Master Craft Certificate Scheme along with other Livery Companies, the Institute of Carpenters and City & Guilds of London Institute. The Joiners & Ceilers’ Annual Award plays an important part in these efforts.
The Worshipful Company of Joiners & CeilersSkills Test Craft Award:So far as can be
ascertained from ancient records, the Joiners’ Company appears to be the only Livery Company who applied a “practical” test of an apprentice’s ability in addition to the “knowledge” gained during their apprenticeship (normally 7 years in the 15th & 16th century).
In the “Ordinances” of the Joiners Company Royal Charter of 1571, Rule No 16 lays down that: (Translated from the Latin) “No man shall set up for himself until such time as he do come to the Master and Wardens and in one of the shops of one of them and in the presence of one of them (or anyone else appointed by them) to make with their own hands some handsome peece of work for his PROOFE PEECE whereby it may be known whether he be a good and sufficient workman or no.”The tradition is still carried forward today and the Test takes place each year in May or June. All
qualifying candidates who take part receive a Certificate confirming they entered the prestigious Joiners’ Skill Test which will enhance any CV for future employers. The Competition is open to:• Employees currently
undertaking or within one year of
completing a period of training in joinery or related activities.
• Students currently undertaking or within one year of completing a full-time training course of a similar nature.
Prizes• First - Cheque for
£1,000, Certificate of Distinction, Presentation Square
• Second - Cheque for £500, Certificate of Commendation.
• Special Merit(s) - Cheque for £100 Certificate of Merit
All candidates who participate will receive a contribution of £25
towards their travel expenses.
This year’s participating Colleges were:• Building Crafts
College, Stratford London (Host of 2012 and 2013 Skill Test)
• Havering College• Chichester College• Futures College
(Southend Essex)• South East Essex
College• Prospects College
(Basildon Campus Essex)
• Canterbury College• Bridgewater College
The winners of the 2013 Joiners & Ceilers Craft Award were:• First Prize - Dickon
Housman, City College Norwich
• Second Prize - Fredrerk Ochocki, City College Norwich
• Third Prize - IOC member Andrew Herriott, Edinburgh College, Scotland
The 2014 skill test will be announced August 2013. Applicants are advised to apply early. Entry forms, competition rules, test date & location available from www.joinersandceilers.co.uk or contact [email protected] or 01483 727113 or [email protected] or 07860 314 884.
Many thanks to John Briner for providing the Joiners’ Company promotional flyer from which this article was created and Helen Ward at Chichester College for the photo.
July 2013 CUTTING EDGE 17
HERITAGE WOOD OCCUPATIONS SPECIALIST UPSKILLING PROGRAMME
WEEK 1: 7th - 11th October 2013 WEEK 2: 14th - 18th October 2013
A 10 day course in the conservation and repair Of historic timber framing, carpentry and joiney involving a unique opportunity to work and learn at Wellbrook Manor, Golden Valley, Hereford-shire, a 14th Century timber framed farmhouse.
In partnership with
The programme forms part of the NVQ Level Three in Heritage Skills. Successful completion of an NVQ
portfolio will enable candidates to apply for their CSCS Gold Heritage Card.
The course comprises 10 days of training over two consecutive weeks both on site and lectures.
The Traditional Building Skills Company The Granary Workshop Lower Court Clifford Hereford HR3 5ER
Grant Support: From 1st January 2013, registered "in scope" CITB companies are eligible for grant assistance of £1,950 comprising £1,125 Attendance payment, £400 VQ achievement and £425 completion incentive. (An additional 22% Supplementary payment is available for Levy payers subject to terms and conditions). Any accommodation and travel to and from the venue is the responsibility of the employer. HOW TO APPLY: Places are limited. Contact us now! Email: [email protected] or Telephone: 01497 831125
THE TWO WEEK COURSE WILL COVER: In the classroom Architectural recognition Knowledge and identification of materials. Different timbers, ironmongery, adhesives and finishes Recognition of defects: cause and effect Identify damage and inappropriate materials Causes and effects of moisture ingress into buildings Wet rot, dry rot and fungi: treatment and repairs Insect attack: woodworm species and wood wasps Reading from plans and specifications Producing sketches and basic scale drawings Measuring out instruments and setting out datums Knowledge and understanding of conservation law Best practice in conserving or restoring timber-based products Maintaining safe working practices when working on conserva-tion projects The recognition of historical significance and carrying out re-versible alterations Recognising previous interventions
Bench joinery Tools of the trade; sharpening, care and maintenance General on-site joinery repairs Shaping and milling; understanding detailing Making and using jigs, setting out complex shaped and bespoke joinery products Installing bench joinery in the workplace Heavy Timber Framework The history of timber framework in the UK Specialist tools and equipment The components of typical timber frame construction Setting out, measuring and marking out Jointing and shaping Fitting, fixing, finishing, positioning and erecting Conserving or restoring timber framework
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Article reproduced from the Incorporated British Institute of Certified Carpenters’ journal, Jan 1923
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IOC Region & Section Contacts
Please see below the current Regional Officers of the IOC. If you are in a region which doesn’t have a Regional Chairman or a Regional Membership Officer why not have a go yourself?! If you’re interested, please contact Trevor Eveleigh FIOC on 01268 772 383 or [email protected].
Here are the contacts for each of the more localised membership groups / sections:
If you don’t have an active section or region nearby then why not set up a new one? Please contact IOC Membership Chairman Trevor Eveleigh FIOC on 01268 772383 or on [email protected] for more information about how you can do this.
WEST SCOTLANDJohn Carlton FIOC0141 632 3299
NORTH WESTDavid Elliott FIOC01257 [email protected]
NORTH WALES Meirick Davies MIOC01745 582740 [email protected]
WEST MIDLANDS Roger Fellows FIOC01327 704556 [email protected]
EAST MIDLANDSAndrew Eato MIOC 01623 [email protected]
NORFOLK & SUFFOLKLes White MIOC07973 [email protected]
THAMES VALLEYAnthony Gulliver MIOC01252 [email protected]
CENTRAL Brian Streather FIOC01277 [email protected]
KENT & EAST SUSSEXTrevor Eveleigh FIOC01268 [email protected]
OVERSEASMel Davies FIOC+44 1491 [email protected]
NORTHERNSCOTLANDC Wilson Miller FIOC0141 649 [email protected]
M William McCulloch MIOC0141 583 [email protected]
NORTH WEST, NORTH WALES, ISLE OF MAN & IRELANDC David Elliott FIOC01257 792462 [email protected]
NORTH EAST-NORTHERNC Lee Shepherd FIOC07867 454417 [email protected]
M Andy Vale FIOC0191 520 [email protected]
M Nicholas Bell MIOC01924 496898 [email protected]
WEST MIDLANDSC James McLaughlin FIOC0121 475 5513 [email protected]
M Daniel Shandley FIOC01675 [email protected]
EAST MIDLANDSM Andrew Eato MIOC 01623 631208 [email protected]
SOUTHERNTHAMES VALLEYC Trevor Greaves FIOC0118 958 [email protected]
GREATER LONDONC Don Stevens FIOC020 8398 5319 [email protected]
SOUTH WESTC David Whitfield FIOC01626 [email protected]
M Mark Smith FIOC07854 965266 [email protected]
CHANNEL ISLANDS C Bill Hill FIOC01534 736711 [email protected]
KEYC = Regional ChairmanM = Regional Membership Officer
If you are in a region without any regional officers then please contact:
Trevor Eveleigh FIOCIOC Membership Chairman01268 [email protected]