Management Committee………
Safeguarding children, young people and adults with care and support needs within the Kennet & Avon
Woodturning Club is the responsibility of ALL MEMBERS. The Club has a comprehensive Guideline
Document which will be made available by the Club Secretary, should it be required.
Safeguarding………
The Management Committee were elected at the Annual General Meeting held on Thursday 9th
February 2023 and will serve for one year. More recently there has been a change of roles in that
the Vice Chairman Phil Lobb has stepped up to become Chairman and John Boyne-Aitken has assumed
the Vice-Chairman’s role.
Who are we?………
We are a friendly bunch of men and women of all ages who have a common interest in woodturning.
The group was formed in 2009 by John Boyne-Aitken following many requests from woodturners
attending local shows. A meeting was called, and John formed the group which rapidly grew and needed
a committee for control.
Within 6 months we were affiliated to the Association of Woodturners of Great Britain. We have on
average about 55 members, they range in ages from about 12 years old to 80 plus. Two of the members
are professional turners and range right down to beginners. Our members come from all walks of life,
some still work full time, but many are retired. We still have some of the founding members in the club.
Normally, each month we have either a professional demonstrator, or a club demonstrator. We have a
hands-on night using the clubs two lathes. We also have a meat raffle organised by a member, George
Flowers, and occasionally we have timber to give away or for sale. Lucy Runs our canteen and provides the
membership with free tea or coffee throughout our evenings. The two professional turners are both on
the committee they are also members of the Register of Professional Turners and trained tutors for those
that require assistance in getting started. John was recently made a Freeman of the Worshipful Company
of Turners by Presentation, the award is given infrequently and is made to show the Company’s
appreciation for outstanding service to the craft of turning. John has also been honoured with the Freedom
of the City of London. He is also one of the national judges.
We have a very able secretary in Peter Hatherell and our Treasurer Tim Awmack who keeps an eye on our
finances. Phil Lobb also holds the role of media co-ordinator and the position of Chairman, Pete Moncrief-
Jury is also a committee member and Kevin Smith is our Webmaster. Our most recent appointment to the
committee is Alan Reed who is now our Safeguarding Officer.
Woodturning can lead to a solitary existence so becoming a member will give you companionship and
fellowship with like-minded people. It will also enable you to try tools before you spend money buying them,
discounts are available at many of the tool supply shops (but only through membership of the AWGB),
and you will also benefit from the wisdom of experienced turners. As a member you will also be eligible to
apply for free training courses with many of the professional turners around the country and you may also
apply for a loan lathe or subsidised activities.