A well-respected local business just outside Frome is celebrating over half a century of supplying high-quality, sustainable timber to the local community and beyond.
Valley Sawmills, based in Holwell near Nunney, has become a trusted name in the timber industry, known for its personal service, environmental responsibility and wide range of bespoke timber products. It is one of the few remaining traditional working sawmills in Somerset.
The business began over 50 years ago, when founder Robin Bullus set up a small sawmill in the centre of Nunney, felling and cutting timber for local landowners and tradespeople.
As demand grew, so did the business — and the noise. Eventually, the sawmill outgrew its original village location. A new site was found at Holwell, a former stone quarry on the edge of the village, and the business moved to its current home. Now trading as R & G Bullus, Valley Sawmills installed new machinery to serve a growing customer base both locally and further afield.
In the late 1980s, Robin’s son Garth Bullus took over the business, expanding its offerings to include sheds, fencing panels and garden furniture, while retaining the mill’s traditional values. In 1999, the business was sold to Herriard Sawmills Ltd, with managing director Mike Self committed to continuing the Bullus family’s legacy.
“Keeping the continuity of the business alive was really important,” said Mike. “We asked Garth to stay on and continue running the day-to-day operations — and he did just that, ensuring that the same values and personal approach introduced by Robin back in the ‘60s remain at the heart of what we do.”
Today, Valley Sawmills continues to offer traditional milling services alongside new additions such as a range of hardwood boards, ideal for carpenters, cabinetmakers and craftspeople. All timber is displayed clearly, with species individually labelled and priced — making it easy for customers to find exactly what they need.
“In today’s world of discount warehouses and cheap online products, the benefits of dealing with a traditional sawmill like Valley are numerous,” said Mike. “We have a wealth of knowledge and skill in working with wood, and we can customise products to your specific needs — whether it’s a particular size or shape. We’re proud to be a business run by local people, for local people.”
For more details, call 01373 836375 or visit https://www.valleysawmills.co.uk
