Former Great Pottery Throw Down contestant Rebecca Norris visited Camphill Village Trust’s Croft Community in Malton to unveil a brand-new kiln, generously donated by leading UK property services company Bell.
Rebecca, a talented potter from Scarborough and a popular figure from series 6 of the hit Channel 4 show, marked the opening of the new kiln on Monday 7 July.
Croft Community is one of ten communities run by Camphill Village Trust, a national charity supporting adults with learning disabilities, autism and mental health problems. The community offers a variety of supported activities through its Nature-based Therapies and Skills programme, and pottery is a long-standing favourite among the people supported.
Speaking at the event, Rebecca Norris said: “I feel very, very honoured to come here today to see all the work that goes on here, but also to be a part of the wider ceramic community. Pottery really does bring everyone together, which is one of my passions in life.”
“Having a kiln like this just makes things so much easier, you can then start experimenting with different things. To see all your incredible makes is just amazing.”
Becky Lamont, Regional Manager at Croft Community, said: “The addition of the new kiln will have a huge impact. It allows our community members to be more involved in every step of the creative process – from shaping and glazing to firing their own pieces. It’s not just about pottery, it’s about confidence, expression, and pride in their achievements.”
This event celebrates both creativity and community spirit, with representatives from Bell in attendance to see first-hand how their donation is helping transform lives.
Kirsty Docherty, Head of Community Engagement at Bell said: “At Bell, we are committed to creating positive social impact across the communities we work and have been since inception back in the 80s. The donation of a Kiln will provide a wealth of opportunities for the community, from social inclusion, wellbeing, education and training.”
“We are proud to support the Croft Community with this donation, which will enable individuals to explore their creativity and build confidence through pottery. This partnership reflects our belief in the power of inclusive opportunities. We look forward to seeing the wonderful work that will come from this new facility and continuing to support Camphill Village Trust’s inspiring mission.”
