The old furniture maker in Chipping went into administation this week. A blow to a way of work, skills and manufacturing as well as the staff and village. Last year it featured on Gerry Robinson’s TV programme and he offered to put in some funds in exchange for a majority share. However it seems he didn’t take it up. It is thought the factory will now be used for another industry.
All isn’t lost in manufacturing. Not directly related, an old weaving company in Wellington, Somerset, Fox Bros. founded in 1772, has been saved by Deborah Meadon of Dragon’s Den fame. She sees a future for the top end of manufacturing quality as at this flannel maker. Would be nice if she looked at Chipping but she has some association with Somerset.