Crawley College student hand carves sign for local landmark

A historic site in Crawley has welcomed the arrival of a beautiful new sign – hand carved by a talented Crawley College student.

The beautifully carved oak sign – commissioned by the Crawley Museum Society and produced by Ben David – will go on display at the Ifield Water Mill.

Ben, who is studying joinery at the college, spent two days working on the sign to ensure it was produced to a professional standard.

Trevor Francis, lecturer in carpentry & joinery, was impressed with how quickly Ben picked up the art of hand carving. He said: “Ben has produced a fantastic piece of work at his first attempt of hand carving lettering.

“He practiced on some pine and did so well that I quickly let him start on oak, which is harder. After less than three letters, I gave him the piece of oak for the sign. He then set all the lettering out and started carving.

“It has taken him about two days to complete and finish, with inserting holes for the fixings and then applying a preservative oil to help protect the timber from the elements.

“I have to say the quality of his work on this job was easily of a commercial standard. He should be really proud.”

The Crawley Museum Society, a local charity which runs two historic venues for Crawley Borough Council – Crawley Museum at ‘The Tree’ and Ifield Watermill in Rusper Road.

Visitors can observe the operational machinery and learn all about the history of the mill and the simple mechanical devices used to make work in the Mill easier.

Zuzana Peppett, treasurer of the Crawley Museum Society, said: “Ben’s work and the connection with Crawley College will be commemorated within the exhibition and the society is keen to build a further relationship with the college.

“Ben’s sign will now be installed on the historic mill building.”