A North Yorkshire craftsman who has spent 40 years turning rough timber into exquisite art is preparing a charity sale marking the end of a remarkable era.
John Whiteley, Chairman of Ryedale Woodturners, will host the large exhibition and sale of his work at the Hill Institute in Thornton-le-Dale next weekend.
For John, the exhibition represents the closing of a productive chapter.
A diagnosis of multiple sclerosis 20 years ago, forced John to scale back his first great passion, mountaineering, and he channelled his focus and physicality into woodturning.
Steve Fearnley, secertary of Ryedale Woodturners, said the over the years John's sales of his exotic burr wood bowls, masterfully shaped lamps, creatively turned wall art, everyday trinkets and ornaments have raised an astonishing £50,000 for charity.
"Now, as his advanced MS prevents him from working at the lathe, John is giving the public a chance to own a piece of his legacy, with all proceeds being split 50/50 between Ryedale Woodturners and international aid agency CAFOD.
"The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development is one of the UK’s largest and most trusted relief networks, operating as a key member of the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) alongside household names like the British Red Cross and Oxfam.
"Though rooted in faith values, the charity is strictly humanitarian: it builds clean water systems, funds local farming projects, and provides emergency relief to people of all faiths and none in the world's poorest countries.
"As with John’s other sales over the years, the money raised will go directly toward helping global communities survive and build independent futures."
Steve added: "Ryedale Woodturners is a very active club with 85 members that meets regularly in Snainton, near Scarborough, for turning demonstrations, training sessions, exhibitions and sales, all with the aim of promoting the fascinating craft of woodturning and related skills.
"Please come along to Thornton Dale to view John’s work, hopefully buy something, meet John in person, and support this worthy cause. Expect reductions and bargain prices. Free entry. "
Further information is available on the Ryedale Woodturners’ website at www.ryedalewoodturners.org.uk