Working in partnership with volunteers at the Beer Men’s Shed, Seaton Town Council has been able to restore to its former glory the dilapidated case used for the mayoral chain.

Over 50 years old, and originally made of boxwood and hardboard covered in leather paper, the case had seen better days and had been stored in the back of a cupboard. Over the years the paper had torn away, the corners had broken and the wood had split in several places. In addition, the catches were damaged and the hinges had fallen away. However, the decorative inner lining was largely intact and in good condition.

Instead of repairing the old box, the talented group of volunteers at Beer Men’s Shed constructed a new box with a frame made of ash, with the exact internal dimensions to accommodate the original embellished lining. A huge amount of care, patience, time and determination also resulted in the covering of the case in dark blue leatherette and the fitting of brass-plated corners, new hinges and catches.

Chris Pickles, chairman of Beer Men’s Shed, said: “We don’t pretend to be as good as the experts in the television programme The Repair Shop but our members do try to turn out high quality work that they can be justifiably proud of. Making good things helps to make you feel better.”

Cllr Dan Ledger, the town counciil chairman and mayor, said: “Seaton Town Council was delighted to collaborate with Beer Men’s Shed on this wonderful project and is incredibly grateful for the time and care that the volunteers at the Men’s Shed have taken in restoring the mayoral regalia case. The case is not only now able to hold the Mayor’s Chain of Office but also retains its link to the town council’s history”.

Men’s Sheds are a place to pursue practical interests at leisure, to practice skills and enjoy making and mending. They are also about making social connections and friendship-building, sharing skills and knowledge, and of course, a lot of laughter. Whatever the activity, the essence of a Shed is not about the building, but about the connections and relationships between its members.

For more information on the Beer Men’s Shed project, please contact the Chairman, Chris Pickles on chris@picklesnet.com

Or visit: https://menssheds.org.uk/about/what-is-a-mens-shed/