We visited George and his wife Carol at their home near Bawtry to learn more about fender-making. Heritage trainees Dan and Adam, along with volunteers Richard and Michael came along as well, so that George could show them his skills with the ropes and pass on some hints and tips from the trade.
George learnt his craft from two working boatmen, Jack Monk and Ike Argent over 40 years ago. His garage is entirely made over to ropes and fenders. It is a workshop from which George supplied a hireboat fleet for 25 years. Today, he still takes on private commissions and sells his wares from his boat Penny whenever they are travelling round the system.