A PROJECT by a Frome community group has come to fruition after more than three years of painstaking work.
Members of Frome Shed, a registered charity based in Welshmill, Park Hill Drive, have declared the project a ‘real labour of love’.
“What started out as a handful of wooden shapes has transformed into a stunning rocking horse,” says the group. “The dappled grey horse, complete with tack and real horsehair mane and tail, is to go on sale in the coming weeks. Proceeds from the sale will go towards providing more resources for Frome Shed.”
The design for the horse was given to the Shed by long-time member and professional carpenter Stevie Bain and the project began to take shape with assistance from fellow members Sam Morris, Teresa Bayfield, Richard Whitehouse and Delia Goddard.
Stevie said, “Although we had the basic shapes, it wasn’t just a question of glueing them together. There was a lot of work involved in carving recesses for the various parts to fit perfectly together and painstaking sanding and shaping of the horse’s anatomy.
“Once that was done, we had to start on the painting and fortunately, we had a ready volunteer, Shed member Pauline Bucknall.
“I’m delighted with the result; it’s a fantastic achievement and everyone involved should be proud.”
After 23 undercoats, three gloss coats, dappling and two coats of varnish, the horse is ready to give hours of pleasure in a new home. Sitting on a sturdy oak rocking base, the horse is big enough to support a lightweight adult.
‘Shedders’ meet every Monday and Thursday from 9am to 1pm at Welshmill in a well-equipped workshop where members make and mend things, either for themselves or the wider community.
Past projects have included bunting, bike racks, benches, planters, outdoor games for children and signage for schools, churches and Frome Town Council. Women members are currently working on Project Linus UK, making quilts and blankets for disadvantaged, sick or disabled babies and children in need.
The Frome Shed, which marks its 10th anniversary this year, is a welcoming environment ideal for those who have just moved to Frome or those wanting more social contact. People have the option to get involved in projects of their choosing or just sit and chat over a free cup of tea.
For more information, see www.fromeshed.org.uk or call 07732 963073
