Seamans Building has donated a van-full of tools to a charity set up to help people in the developing world generate their own income.

Suffolk charity Tools with a Mission (TWAM) ships packs of refurbished tools to Africa, giving people the means to create livelihoods and new businesses.

The idea is to create a mindset of independence, not reliance, and to give people the tools to build their own sustainable careers.

In December, the team from TWAM visited Seamans’ headquarters in Thurston, near Bury St Edmunds, to collect the tools – including a range of grinders, drills and cutting tools.

David Hart, Contracts Manager at Seamans, said: “We are proud to play our part in helping people across Africa create new ways of making a living.

“It is wonderful that craftspeople in the UK can help gift tools to fellow craftspeople across Africa –we all share that love of making things by hand.

“It is such a worthwhile cause, and it is great to think these tools will make a real difference to lives across the developing world.”

Tools With a Mission, based in Ipswich, sends trade kits of tools to be used in training centres across Africa, giving people the opportunity to hone their skills and make a sustainable living.

James Noble, Fundraising and Communications Officer at TWAM, said: “We are so grateful to Seamans Building for the large quantity of tools that they donated to us, which were all in such good condition.

“Our tools go to various countries in Africa, where they help vulnerable people living in extreme poverty to learn valuable skills that will transform their lives.

“The money that the tools and skills bring them allows them to feed their families every day and send their children to school.

“The tools from Seamans Building will play a huge role in reducing poverty and suffering in Africa.”

To find out more about Tools With a Mission and how to support them , visit www.twam.uk

When Donna Barford studied to become a quantity surveyor (QS), she was one of just a few women on her training course – out of 60 students.

But far from putting her off, Donna said the industry is such a fascinating sector, more women should consider it for a career.

Here, Donna, now a Senior Managing QS, reflects on her profession – and her almost 17 happy years at Seamans.

The beginnings of a career in construction

After school I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do as a career and had planned on studying geography at university.

But I attended a surveying-based careers event and visited a PQS practice in Bury St Edmunds.  I found it intriguing and it raised my interest in construction and the built environment.

The more I discovered about the industry, I realised I would like to pursue a career within it, so I started working for a PQS practice in west Suffolk.

As part of my job, I was enrolled on a five-year, part-time degree surveying course. After this, it took a further two years to qualify as a Chartered QS.

Although I was aware construction was a very male-dominated sector, I didn’t allow this to deter me.  I embraced surveying and worked with everyone to build a good rapport.

After working at another PQS practice in Bury St Edmunds, and then a housing association in Cambridgeshire, I started at Seamans Building in May 2006 – and have been here ever since.

A fascinating sector

Construction is such a brilliant industry to get into – it’s the sheer variety of projects you get to work on that makes the job so interesting.

At one time you could be working on the refurbishment of a Grade II listed country house, then your next project could be working on a new build multiple housing scheme, a Design & Build project, a bespoke dwelling, or a fire damaged building, such as Cupola House.

Then you also have exciting projects like the new library at Culford School or the architecturally stunning Balancing Barn in Thorington. The nature of the construction industry means that you don’t know what project could be next!

If you like following procedures, solving problems, meeting people, building relationships and being part of a team, you will enjoy a career in construction.

To any young women who are considering entering construction as a career, whether it be surveying, management, architecture, or whatever path – I would say go for it.

For more information on careers and apprenticeships at Seamans, see our careers page.

Pupils at Suffolk primary school have buried a time capsule – and have been given an ‘X marks the spot’ map to find it in years to come.

Children from Elveden Church of England Primary Academy’s History Club joined the team at Seamans Building this week to bury the capsule under one of the school’s new classrooms.

Site manager Neil Honeyball, from Seamans, removed a section of the floor so the capsule could be buried underneath.

Neil said: “It was a brilliant event – the children loved the idea of burying a piece of history that will be unearthed by following generations.

“They have had a great time taking part in the project and have learned a lot about their school in the process.

“We will be providing the school with a ‘X marks the spot’ map the school will keep in their archives so they can find it in the future.”

Seamans Building are working to expand two existing classrooms at the school and relocate the existing staff room, providing additional space for more pupils.

The time capsule includes information on the history of the school and Elveden Estate, as well as pictures of the school buildings, teachers and members of staff and information about royal visits.

Headteacher Lorna Rourke said: ““The children really loved creating the time capsule.

“They got the chance to trawl through our archive to find out about the history of the school and picked out pieces they thought would be interesting to whoever opened it in the future.

“It has been really exciting, thinking who would open this in years to come.

“We even included QR codes that link to videos the children have made – hopefully they will still be able to use that technology in the future.

“For the children, looking through our history has been fascinating.

“Some of their parents and grandparents came to the school so they have really enjoyed looking back through the archives.”

Water meters are now compulsory for all new-build homes, making householders more careful about how long they turn the taps on for. In this handy article, Seamans Building offer expert information on six key types of features which you may be able to have fitted in your property, helping you to effectively reduce your consumption of one of the world’s most precious resources.

A Dual-Flush Toilet

Older single-flush toilets use around nine litres of water each time the handle is pulled.

Most modern lavatories have bypassed this outdated system by having a dual flush, using only between two to six litres of water per handle pull. If you have an old cistern then installing a displacement device in it is a simple solution, and one which reduces water volume.

Consider also placing a device called a delayed-action inlet valve into your cistern, preventing the toilet from refilling before the outlet valve closes. This thrifty inlet valve ultimately helps you save on water usage and cost.

Bidets and shower toilets not only offer a more hygienic experience but also help the environment by cutting the amount of water used in manufacturing toilet paper. Investing in at least one of these will also keep you on trend with the growing popularity of eco bathrooms.

Low-flow or Timed Showers

A popular misconception is that power showers use less water than baths. However, a ten minute power shower can use as much as 150 litres of water, while a bath uses up to 60 litres.

There is no need to sacrifice the luxury of a hot power shower should you wish to save on your water costs. Low-flow showers are an excellent green solution for those who love the feeling of a powerful spray. These combine water and air into the shower head and use only six to eight litres per minute. Shower timers are another useful tool, encouraging water saving habits, and are cheaper than purchasing a low-flow head.

A Smaller Bath

Another solution to conserving water is to fit a smaller bath. While you might not be able to stretch out properly inside one, especially if you are tall, you can console yourself by thinking how much money you are saving. Fancy design features will help too. Angled corner baths save space, and those which slightly slope downwards are quicker to fill, and thus use less water.

Low-Flow Taps

Low-flow devices are also available for taps. Called tap aerators, these devices mix air and water in a similar way to low-flow showers, saving water with every use. One drawback is these are mostly unsuitable for homes with low water pressure. A clever solution for this is to install taps which have both a regular and a low-flow function. Comparable to dual flush toilets, these give you a choice between the two different functions.

Water Butts

These useful gadgets are essential if you want to cut down on the amount of water used to maintain your garden. Water butts collect and store rainwater from drainpipes and gutters in a process called water harvesting. This water can then be used on thirsty plants.

A complementary option is to have a kit fitted to downpipes which divert water used in bathrooms and kitchens. This recycled resource is called ‘grey water’ and is an economic and safe way to irrigate your garden.

Smart Appliances

Most modern appliances like washing machines and dishwashers are sufficiently energy efficient. But if you want to take your water saving habits to a new level, then smart appliances are ideal for you.

Wi-fi enabled washing machines are increasingly popular. These high tech appliances automatically calculate each load to ensure appropriate water and detergent consumption. You don’t have to be home to do the laundry either, these washing machines are designed to let you operate them remotely.

Smart water leak detectors are ideal too if you want to safeguard your home from expensive water wastage and damage caused by flooding. These pinpoint the source of any leaks and can measure overall water consumption as well.

Seamans Building – a New Home Builder in East Anglia

Seamans Building, building contractors based near Bury St Edmunds, have many years of experience in home-building using traditional techniques. But that doesn’t stop us incorporating the latest energy and water-saving features into the homes we build. To find out more about our services, follow this link or call us on 01359 230430.

A young apprentice at Seamans Building says she was inspired to take up carpentry after helping her grandfather as a child.

Erin Keer, 20, joined the company in March 2022, having spent two years at Suffolk New College in Ipswich studying carpentry and joinery.

Erin said she loves her job and would advise other young people to consider a career the sector.

“My grandfather was a builder when I was a child and I was always helping him out,” she said.

“When I was younger, I had originally wanted to become a photographer but later realised sitting at a computer for hours on end just wasn’t for me.

“I have always liked building stuff and helping my grandad. Then when I started doing carpentry, I couldn’t get enough of it.

“It’s how you can take a big load of timber and transform it into windows, cupboards, furniture, doors – I love the process from start to finish.”

Erin said despite being one of the only women in the carpentry workshop, she fits right in at Seamans.

“When I started at Seamans I felt part of the company straight away, I didn’t get treated any different because I am a young woman,” she said.

“I would say to women who are interested in carpentry or construction to just go for it.

“It’s a brilliant industry to work in and you learn new things every day.

“If you can get your foot in the door there’s a bright future ahead of you.”

Ben Whatling, Production Director at Seamans, said: “Erin is a hugely valued member of our team and has fitted in perfectly since she started with us in March.

“Her enthusiasm for her work is infectious and she’s always got a smile on her face.

“She is a great example to other women considering a career in construction as well as young people looking to take their first steps into the sector.”

Seamans Building are keen to support the next generation into a career in construction.

That’s why we work closely with local organisations to promote the industry to young people, and to make the sector easier for them to access.

See here for more on Seaman’s pledge to support young people into construction.

Photography credit: Simply C Photography

Ten years ago a devastating blaze ripped through Cupola House – one of Bury St Edmunds’ most historic buildings.

The 17^th century, Grade I listed building – then a Strada restaurant – went up in flames on June 16, 2012, to the shock of the town.

Seamans Building were on the scene that night, brought in by structural engineers to assist firefighters bravely battling the flames.

But as the smoke finally cleared, thoughts immediately switched to how to rebuild Cupola House from the ashes.

Here, Ben Whatling, Production Director at Seamans, takes a look at Seamans’ role in restoring the historic landmark to its former glory.

The night of the fire

Seamans were called in by structural engineers Richard Jackson Ltd the very night of the fire.

Because much of the building had been destroyed, we attended to ensure the structure’s stability as firefighters tackled the fire.

At one point the facade of the building looked at risk, the heat of the fire causing it to expand.

Seamans’ engineers cut a small strip from the front elevation to reduce the pressure, allowing it to be saved.

After the flames were extinguished and the site checked for hotspots, next came the fire investigation.

Seamans were on hand to secure the building and help save vital evidence needed to piece together what had happened.

The clear up

This was a particularly challenging site to work on.

With much of the rear of the building collapsed we had to work slowly, carefully removing debris piece by piece.

To achieve this, Seamans constructed temporary scaffolding and, using a skip suspended from a crane, began clearing the rubble.

As the site was slowly cleared, there were a few surprises buried beneath the building.

While excavating, our team discovering a medieval well and additional rooms under the floor.

While the clear-up continued, working alongside St Edmundsbury Borough Council and Purcell Architects, plans were drawn up to how to restore the much-loved building.

Rising from the ashes

To future-proof the building and reduce the chance of another fire, it was decided a steel frame should be used to reinforce the building’s structure.

However, the team were keen to retain the building’s unique and eccentric lines.

This meant engineers were faced with out-of-plumb angles and wonky floors and walls.

Various local craftsmen and women were brought in to construct the detailed interior.

This included Church and Gooderham Ltd, based in Earl Soham, who constructed the oak staircases, and master woodcrafter Rob Lewis, in Haughley, who created the building’s beautiful, ornate carvings.

However, the day the whole town had been waiting for was when the rebuilt cupola, constructed in Seamans’ carpentry workshop in Thurston, was finally lifted onto the building.

It was a great sight to see and at that point, felt like the project was coming to an end.

Building work was completed in August 2016.

A team effort

This project is a shining example of what can be achieved when councils, companies and individuals come together for a common good.

It was a pleasure working on such an important project, and we were delighted by how it turned out.

This restoration needed the best quality craftmanship, sourced locally – just like how it would have been built back in 1693 – and that’s exactly what happened.

In 2017 Seamans Building won two LABC Building Excellence Awards for our work on the project while in March 2018 we won Heritage Project of the Year at the NFB Awards.

Suffolk News – Ten years on from devastating Bury St Edmunds blaze article.

At Seamans Building, we believe construction is the most rewarding and exciting industry there is – especially for young people.

That’s why we work closely with local organisations to promote the industry to young people, and to make the career easier for them to access.

As part of this, Seamans has recently donated two tonnes of flint to West Suffolk College.

We have also joined the icanbea… online tool, a scheme aimed at supporting 12–25-year-olds in Suffolk and Norfolk into work and training.

Here, Ben Whatling at Seamans, takes a look at how the firm is encouraging more young people into the sector.

Learning new skills

We have a number continued to support a number of apprentices of all ages at Seamans Building, and every one of them learns new skills on the job every day.

Our projects often combine contemporary building techniques with heritage skills and craftmanship – so there’s always something new to learn.

We have a wealth of experience and know-how at Seamans, and we are always thrilled whenever we get the chance to pass that knowledge on.

In fact, our 18-year-old apprentice Louis Hart just received runner up in the Apprentice of the Year category at the SJCC Awards.

“I have really enjoyed my time at Seamans so far and am really excited about my future,” he said.

“It is such a rewarding and challenging career – I would advise any young people considering construction to give it a go.”

Louis is a shining example of the incredible wealth of talent we have in Suffolk, and the importance of supporting young people keen to get into the industry.

Access to learning

Giving young people the opportunity to learn construction skills is vital for the future of the construction sector.

That’s why Seamans has recently donated flint, as well as 20 bags of premixed lime mortar, to West Suffolk College (WSC), to give them the materials they need to learn the trade.

Rebecca Mann, Head of Construction and The Built Environment, Strategic Growth and Partnerships, Apprenticeships at West Suffolk College, said: “WSC are very proud to work with Seamans, helping to educate and train existing and new members of the company’s workforce.

“Seamans are a loyal and dedicated business who have supported our programmes of study and apprenticeship training schemes for many years.

“Having companies who are willing to share their ideas, resources and networks is integral and help to forge successful relationships between local business and the local community.

“Together, alongside many other business’ we are helping to shape the future workforce in Construction and Building services.

“A big thank you to Seamans for their kind donation of materials which will help students to practice their skills in our workshops”

A rewarding career

To help more young people enter the construction sector, Seamans has just joined the icanbea… online tool, a platform that helps employers make themselves visible to new young talent approaching the job market.

Are you interested in a career in construction? Are you looking for a new challenge?

If you feel you have the necessary skills to join our exciting team, then please let us know about you.

To view our latest vacancies please follow our page on icanbea…

You can also download and complete our Application for Employment Form via our careers page.