Our committee decided to buy a tree, get it converted to useable sizes for turning and sell it to the members. The beech tree was believed to have fallen in the hurricane of ’87 so as it had lain for some 20 plus years some spalting should have occurred. Spalting of the wood is caused by the interaction of several fungi and produces attractive dark patterns in the wood. Andy Toms, a Woodland and Wetland Restoration professional kindly offered his services to convert the tree and give a demo to the members.

Andy’s transportable sawmill was set up at Martyn’s Wood in Newchurch where the turners and families gathered to watch. The mill was a tracked swivel saw that could cut both vertically and horizontally. The 20 inch blade which only had 6 teeth was powered by a 24 HP engine. This kit made short work of the tree which was very soft in places! Most people got a liberal dusting of wood chips. Some of the younger family members helped rescue the escaping livestock between the cuts. The long planks were chain-sawed into manageable lengths and then the hard bargaining with auctioneer John N. began!

Following this excitement we were all treated to a BBQ in the Church Hall with excellent burgers and bangers cooked by Mike and served up by “Mrs Mike” and her team. Tea and delicious scones finished off an interesting and enjoyable evening.

What spalted gems will our members create?