Keith, now an obsessional amateur turner, was born in Carlisle Cumbria, on November 5th 1953.
A birth date that provided a license to produce wooden off cuts for burning if ever there was one.
Before Keith arrived on the scene his father started work as an apprentice joiner only to have the Second War dictate a change of direction into army service.
Prior to this impromptu change of employment a wood lathe was purchased initially to make wheels for wooden toys. The Bidex lathe, saw occasional use until 2008.
Having been born into a household where an affinity with wood existed and a lathe was available, it was probably inevitable that Keith should develop a lifelong relationship with timber. His wood turning experience started at school in Lancaster at age twelve. The interest was fostered by an enthusiastic elderly teacher, Alan Chadwick, a retired carpenter and competent turner. His initial efforts were supported by the presence of the lathe at home and the gift of a new set of turning tools from dad.
Keith prefers to work with timber from native grown trees, the majority of which are chain sawn in the fields, hand sawn into blanks, the end grain sealed and then air dried before use. Timber is selected carefully for its grain and unusual markings. The turnings are both utilitarian and artistic, occasionally combined. By turning, this felled timber is saved from becoming firewood and can provide eternal use or pleasure.
Keith is a member of the Association of Woodturners of Great Britain, The Gloucestershire Association of Woodturners, The Forest of Dean Woodturners, The Heart Of England Woodturners and an AWGB approved tutor.