Why toads?

Well, honestly, I got bored playing darts. A desperate plea to make up the numbers in a division three league game and my first eight later, I was hooked. I made my first table the following weekend, and the rest is history. I’ve had the privilege of repairing, making and fettling tables all over the south and Europe since.

I’ve had an interesting and varied number of careers, and learnt a lot from some very skilled craftsmen. Elements of each have found their way into the tables — learning to weld on a dairy farm (as seen in the Plumpton), or being taught to cut mortice and tenon joints by a joiner (as seen in the Lewes). But I’m happiest machining something, be it the smallest handmade nut and bolt for a clock or a giant shaft out of a tractor. I’ve been lucky to be in the right place at the right time: I’ve made bits to go on a Spitfire, tools for mudlarkers and mechanics, parts for a World War Two trench pump, repaired obsolete exhaust manifolds — even restored a hand grenade.

I love the game of toads and the fun of making anything related to it. I’m not aiming to turn lead into gold, as such — every item for sale is a genuine reflection of the cost and time to produce. If you can’t find the answer to your burning toads-related question, or the item you require, please don’t hesitate to send me a message.

Away from the bench you’ll likely find me at a country show, a steam rally, or visiting one of the many vineyards that scatter the South Downs — and I’m hoping to return to growing award-winning vegetables. A rewarding and challenging hobby; it’s not that easy!