Work carried out as part of a joint Heritage Construction Skills Project involving Bassetlaw District Council has helped to preserve three valued historic buildings.
For the second year, the council teamed up with Pinnacle Conservation to deliver free foundation classes in practical skills including stone masonry, joinery and lime plastering/pointing.
Students have been learning on the job while carrying out repairs at Bassetlaw Museum, Retford Road Chapel in Worksop and the Walks of Life Museum in Tuxford.
Adam Hickey Managing Director of Pinnacle Conservation said: “There is a growing demand for skilled craftspeople who understand how to work sensitively with historic buildings, and programmes like this are essential in meeting that need.
“This programme alongside repairing historic buildings, is about investing in people and securing the future of our heritage. Working alongside our team on live conservation projects gives learners an authentic experience of the heritage sector and the pride that comes with protecting important local landmarks.
“Seeing participants progress into apprenticeships and further training is exactly the outcome we hoped for, and we’re proud to continue this partnership with Bassetlaw District Council.”
The course was established to meet the increasing demand for repairs on historical buildings, of which the district has a high number, and a limited number of skilled individuals and businesses specialising in this type of work.
As well as carrying out vital repairs, one of the students who completed the course has gone on to secure an apprenticeship at Pinnacle and is now on a course at York College.
Cllr Charles Adams, Cabinet Member for Business and Skills, said: “This joint project has been a great success in engaging and supporting residents to enter the specialist heritage construction industry.
“As well as providing a steppingstone into the sector, their work has also contributed to the preservation and revitalisation of some of our most valued historic buildings.”
The Heritage Skills Programme has been supported by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) with funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
Last Updated on Tuesday, May 26, 2026