Wirral Arts: The Wirral Woodcarvers

Mar 13 2013 by Linda Foo Guest, Birkenhead News

BEAUTIFULLY carved sculptures created from wood have been skilfully made by a Wirral craft group.

Wirral Woodcarvers was set up in 1972 by John Flower when he organised a summer class in Wallasey and it progressed from there. The group has a diverse mix of members, both men and women.

Carvers have access to more than 100 different types of gouges and chisels of all shapes and sizes. They have showcased their work at the Williamson Art Gallery and the Lady Lever.

Russ Beaufort, from Wallasey, a member for 10 years, said: “We are a very informal group and welcome beginners and woodcarvers of all abilities.

“Some members begin by drawing plans of what they would like to create.

“A lot of it is dictated by the wood itself, depending on which way the grain runs and the type of wood. The project can evolve and change halfway through as it is developed.

“What’s great about working with wood is that it is flexible so if a mistake is made it can easily be fixed.”

Wirral Woodcarvers meet every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm during term time at The Mosslands School in Wallasey. All abilities are welcome to join with instructions and tools provided.

A course of 10 weeks costs £50. For more information, contact John on 678 9389 or Russ on 630 1981.