Student work delights at New Forest Show

Fifteen students from four colleges took part in the ‘Inspirations in Wood’ pavilion at the New Forest Show last month (24-26 July).

The students, which were from The Building Craft College, Chichester University, Peter Sefton School and Rycotewood Furniture Centre, exhibited pieces they had designed and made during the final session of their various courses.

Over 18,000 people visited the Pavilion across the three day show, which gave the students a great opportunity to talk to potential customers, seek future work, commissions or job opportunities.

During the show, a number of prizes sponsored by The Furniture Makers’ Company were presented.

First prize went to Roland Smith from the Peter Sefton School for his Bedside Cabinets in cherry. Second prize was awarded to Chris Ward from The Building Craft College for his Canopy Table, with glass insert, and third prize to Richard Illingworth from Rycotewood for his Glass Top table made from steam bent wood.

The New Forest Trust Prize went to Tom Bradley from the Peter Sefton School for his well veneered and cleverly designed expanding envelope table, as did the Furniture Makers prize awarded for the People’s Choice.

Organisers of the show commented that they were “delighted with both the excellent pieces on show this year and the students’ engagement”.

We would like to thank the New Forest Trust for hosting this exhibition and to corporate member Axminster Tools as well as Celtheath Contract Furniture for supporting the event.