Chainsaw-carved dormouse bench creates a buzz at Repton Park

A striking wooden bench featuring images of dormice has been put in place for the enjoyment of residents at Taylor Wimpey’s Repton Park development in Ashford, Kent.

The impressive bench was designed and carved using chainsaws by Woodland Centre, a family business based in West Hoathly, West Sussex.

‘Chainsaw’ Dave Lucas, who created the dormouse bench, has also completed works for Kew Gardens, the National Trust’s Wakehurst Place, and Marwell Zoo, near Winchester.

Dave says: “The dormouse idea came about when we met with Taylor Wimpey’s project manager at Repton Park to discuss ideas. I had never carved a dormouse before and it struck me as an interesting sculpture.

“I spent four or five days carving the bench, which was a really enjoyable project and I was very pleased with the result. I hope it is well received by everyone at Repton Park.”

Once Dave’s carving was complete, the bench was sanded, stained with colour and treated to protect it from water damage.

Woodland Centre also created a mushroom-shaped table and a log bench, which have been put in place for residents around Repton Park.

The business comprises carver Dave Lucas, David and Anne Watson, and their son Reg.

Jason Stokes, Regional Sales and Marketing Director for Taylor Wimpey, says: “We wanted to commission a really interesting sculpture which also had the practical use as a seat, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the finished dormouse bench – it is an eye-catching piece and a real talking point.

“I’m sure the residents at Repton Park will agree that the benches and table created for us by Woodland Centre, are fantastic additions to the development.”

For more information on Woodland Centre, visit woodlandcentre.co.uk. A time lapse video of the bench being made can be found on YouTube by searching ‘chainsaw dave dormouse’.

All of the high-quality homes in the current phase at Repton Park are now reserved, but property-seekers can register their interest in the next phase of properties, Monarch Gardens, which will be launched in the summer.

The Repton Park Sales and Marketing Suite is located on Sir Henry Brackenbury Road, off Templar Way, Ashford, TN23 3FJ, and is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Alternatively, visit taylorwimpey.co.uk.