Club News and Announcments
Club Night - New Format Success
Our meeting on 1st March 2023 saw the introduction of a slightly altered format for Open Evenings. Discussion at the previous AGM pointed to the fact that Members wished to see the re-introduction of the 20 minute Turn. The new Chairman also wanted to see members getting "more involved" and suggested that Open Eveneings should be renamed Club Nights and on these occasions we would get all four club lathes out together with club gouges and the clubs Sorby ProEdge. The aim is to encourage people to get turning. After some discussion this evolved into a re-introduction of the 20 minute Turn at Club Nights and members being encouraged to 'have a go'. In addition, novices would also be positively encouraged to have a go under the guidance of a more experienced turner if they wished.
Our meeting on 1st March was the first Club Night following the new format and we were pleased to say that it was a success. Members had been told the blank that would be required for the evening and Dave Winter was on hand armed with suitable blanks for the event. It was decided that we should start with something simple and the 'Turn' was a Mushroom!
Since the 2024 AGM, Alan Smith, who has been a regular participator in these Club Nights, has now planned a series of various subjects for the coming year and will also reinstate the monthly Challenge competition.
Members are encouraged to participate in these activities.
Grant Funding
Some time ago the club was awarded a grant of £1,353 by Foundation Derbyshire.
This generous grant allowed the club to purchase a set of gouges for use with each of the four lathes already owned by the club. The grant also provided for the purchase of a sharpening system to keep the new gouges in good condition.
Already we have seen that having sets of gouges available is enabling more activity at "hands-on" club meetings.
Further grant opportunities are being explored to help the club continue to pursue its objectives and remain financially viable.