Chairs show will be a first (From Gazette Series)

Chairs show will be a first

WESTONBIRT Arboretum will stage the first International Chairmakers Exhibition during May 1-3.

More than 150 producers all over the world are expected at the world-famous arboretum, which has also made a name for itself as a leading events venue for inspirational new exhibitions connected with its tree heritage.

A fascinating cross section of styles from all over Britain, America and Europe will be on display in marquees and in Westonbirt's Great Oak Hall and these will include some very special chairs from America including one made by craftsman George Blake, a Native American from California.

The chairs exhibited will provide an insight into the past with museum and antique pieces from the Cotswold Antique Dealers Association and the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers. The trade and associates marquee will have various display stands from organisations including Woodland Heritage.

The public will have a chance to view and buy the chairs on display, as well as learn about their history and origins. A few selected chairs will be auctioned on Monday afternoon by Christopher Claxton-Stevens, who until recently was the Master of the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers.

Entry to the exhibition is included in Westonbirt's normal admission price of £6 for adults, £5 concessions, family £12.50 and children £1 or free if under 5.

"An added bonus for anybody coming to Westonbirt for Chairs 2004 is the chance to experience the beauty of Westonbirt in spring," said curator Simon Toomer. "Visitors who walk round the arboretum can enjoy the beautiful sea of bluebells in Silk Wood and the old Arboretum or the flowering cherries in the Cherry Glade. Some of our camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas will also be in bloom."