The best way to join our Association is to come along to a club night and see what goes on.
Your first visit is as a guest so just let us know when you arrive so we can answer any questions and show you around before the demonstration starts. at 7.30 pm.
Our shop is open from around 6.45 pm and you will also see what members are putting on the table to show off their skills. Beginners are encouraged to show what they have done and to ask questions if they encountered problems.
The demo is projected onto a screen so everyone can see what is happening.
We break for tea or coffee and biscuits at 8.30 pm until 9 pm and the session ends at 10 pm.
So, what do you need to do to join?
Firstly you have to join the Association of Woodturners of Great Britain (AWGB) as this requirement is embodied in our constitution. You will need to complete their form and the yearly cost for an individual is £24 (£12 for 6 months if after the 1st July). This membership brings a number of key benefits such as Insurance protection, quarterly magazine and training opportunities. This fee is paid to the Thameside club and we process your application as a member.
We also ask you to complete our own form and our membership is a yearly cost of £20 (£10 for 6 months if after the 1st July). There no other fees to pay other than 30p for your tea or coffee.
If joining after the 1st October, this will count as the following year so 15 months for the price of 12 months.
Extract from the AWGB web site on members benefits:
The AWGB offers members the following benefits
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Membership of a National Body dedicated to the promotion of woodturning and the interests of all woodturners
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A training programme offering a range of support to assist members improve their capabilities
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Grants to cover a range of turning activities including provision of equipment, including loan lathes – see grant scheme below
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Opportunity to join over 120 active clubs throughout the UK giving fellowship support and advice
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Quarterly newsletter full of useful and interesting information
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Discounts at a wide range of suppliers
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Free listing on the website for members offering demonstrations, tuition, commissions (NB we expect anyone using this service to have the appropriate insurance cover in place)
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Opportunity to have you website linked on the AWGB website
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The help and fellowship of both amateur and professional members
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Opportunity to attend displays of members work at major exhibitions and shows
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Opportunity to attend a major international seminar every two or three years
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Opportunity to attend regional demonstrations and activities run by our clubs
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Support for members from our regional representatives
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Access to a comprehensive and cost effective insurance scheme for Public Liability and All Risks insurance cover for all clubs