Your Questions and my Answers

Q. Why are your Trugs cheaper than other Sussex Trugs?

A. Other makers supply the Trade who require a 50% discount. I wont supply trade, I prefer to sell to the public at a more realistic affordable price. Hence, my trugs are on average £45 each, instead of £100 +

Q. How long is the delivery time?

A. Orders online by 9 a.m. or phone before midday, sent same day for delivery next day.

Q. Can I visit your workshop to view and choose what I like?

A. We welcome that. For directions including a map and Images to our door, Click the link for 'Contact Me' and select 'Map Directions' . But PLEASE ring first to avoid me having popped out when you arrive. We are available weekends as well as weekdays to meet you at our workshop.

Q. Can I send one to a different address than my own?

A. Of course. After ordering, click on the link for 'Different Address', fill out the information and 'Submit'. We get it instantly. Do not leave it for too long as it may already be parcelled and collected by the courier.

Q. Do I need to treat my Trug in any way?

A. In brief, no, but for more information, click the link 'About my Trugs' and select 'Your Trug Care'. There is a leaflet within the box of every trug for trug care information.

Q. Do you take on apprentices?

A. No, We have tried in the past, but I cannot send out trugs inferior to mine, which of course they will be after 55 years of making, so I end up with a stack of below standard trugs that I can’t sell! Also, I can’t pay someone with more passion for texting and listening to (c)rap music than learning a dying craft. Perhaps a little harsh, but in truth, who would be passionate and dedicated earning apprenticeship wages, less than sitting on a checkout at Tesco’s?

Q. Are your trugs guaranteed?

Yes, a lifetime guarantee in normal use (this doesn't apply if you've backed over it with a 4x4!).

Q. What are your trugs made of?

In 1970 we could not aquire any willow, so rather than cease making, we experimented with other materials, one of which was Birch. It proved so successful that we have continued with Birch for 55 years. It is so much stronger, rot-proof and unliked by woodworm that we can offer a lifetime guarantee in normal use (this doesn't apply if you back over it with a 4x4!). They are still crafted in the traditional way of steaming and bending, unlike the foreign imports sold in many garden centres that are made with poor material and assembled with staples (not copper tacks),

Q. Do you send to other countries?

A. Not at present. We have in the past, but the added taxes now payable by the customer due to Brexit, plus extortionate shipping fees that must include insurance, tracking, signed for etc. we don't feel the total cost is fair. In addition, should the parcel be lost or damaged, we have to re-fund in full, not fair or worthwhile to us.

Q. How long does it take to make a trug?

A. If I were to make 'one' trug, several hours, but I no longer make 'one' trug. I make 20-30 handles, rims, boards and feet, then assemble them. In a good week I can make 30-40, but 'good' weeks rarely happen. The bulk of my work is done between 6:00 a.m. and 10:30 when my wife arrives for my feeding time. From thereon I am under her complete control and needs, so production can dwindle (you know what I mean guys).