Bench Renovation
The Problem - Benches in Kirkby Stephen deteriorating

In 2020 UERC undertook to assist with the renovation and maintenance of around 70 public benches in and around Kirkby Stephen. This is an ongoing project via which the club supports the local community. Many of the benches have deteriorated due to neglect and a lack of routine maintenance. One of the first benches renovated was from the cemetery in Kirkby Stephen. This bench required welding and several slats replacing. Roger Frank, the club's resident engineer, made his well-equipped workshop available to facilitate this work. This set a pattern for renovations where benches could be removed from sites. However the vast majority of benches are bolted down and will have to be renovated in situ when the weather improves in the spring of 2021.

Summer 2026. The project continues, with further benches renovated and a brand new solid oak bench hand-made from a single log. The log was split and hewn by axe before being cut into slabs, then lifted into place by tractor. Members also dug out and laid a paved base so the new bench has a proper footing on site. Existing benches at Frank's Bridge, Kirkby Stephen, were also given a thorough wire-brushing and repainted as part of the ongoing maintenance programme.

March 2021. Renovated bench pending return to Kirkby Stephen Cemetery.

September 2020. Kirkby Stephen Cemetery.