The skills of BEP apprentices went on parade for the Army in Wales.
The capable company of apprentices under the guidance of mentor Gary Fender used their imagination to create a modern range of furniture from recycled engine components.
The engine-block table, chess-board and pieces, candlesticks and stands, was the star auction at the summer dinner of 157 (Welsh) Regiment Royal Logistic Corps..
The concept for the apprentices to challenge their skills and imagination came from secretary Caroline Heyns and Gary took it on as a project for his apprentices.
He said, “Some wondered what this was to do with their training but in fact it is everything to do with their training.
“They were presented with a challenge and they had to research, discuss and develop an answer to it. At the same time it tested their practical skills to make the items from several bits and pieces and to finish them off in an attractive manner and to a timetable.”
The only item they could not make themselves was the glass top to the table which had to be cut, beveled and finished by specialists and they topped off the display with candles provided by Caroline, who said, “I think they have done an incredible job.”
BEP plant manager Ian Pearson was present for the “passing out” of the items when they were handed over to Capt Tim Crawshaw, WO Christian Hockings, Cpl Emma Lock and Regimental Major Idris, The Dragon, along with WO Martin Sellwood, a BEP evaluation engineer, who is a Reservist with the Regiment for 20 years and has been at BEP for 14 years.
“It is remarkable what the apprentices have done with items which were destined for recycling,” said Ian Pearson. “You can see the block and camshafts, clutch-plates and connecting rods but some other items have been very cleverly adapted from their original purpose and will make you wonder that they were when you see them in the pieces of furniture.”
Capt Crawshaw added, “We were absolutely delighted to receive this tremendous donation and proceeds from the night went to Ty Hafen, Welsh Wheelchair Association, Wales Air Ambulance and Army Benevolent Fund.”
He added that the Army was also keen to work with BEP and other businesses to help its staff improve themselves both physically and mentally and gain extra qualifications.
Image by MediaPhotos
