Turner Dave is on top of world (From Worcester News)

Turner Dave is on top of world

5:00pm Friday 5th October 2012 in News

A MALVERN craftsman has become a world champion.

Dave Jackson, who runs Wildwood Coppice Crafts, beat all comers to clinch the World Log to Leg Pole Lathe Turning Championships at Ragley Hall, in Alcester, Warwickshire.

Mr Jackson competed against seven other contestants, turning two Windsor chair legs from a piece of ash in the quickest time, Dave clocking nine minutes, 35 seconds with 90 seconds as penalty points.

This put him 19 seconds clear of the runner-up, Richard Ely, of East Sussex, and won him a silver trophy.

Mr Jackson, who manages Park Wood in West Malvern on behalf of the Malvern Hills Conservators, said: “Pole lathes are still widely used by hundreds of people across the country. It can be relaxing and absorbing whilst being fairly physical, keeping me fit.

“It’s a sustainable craft and I enjoy keeping these old skills alive.”