Celebrating villages

Prickwillow Pottery exhibition opens at Prickwillow Museum

3
Skip to next photo
1/1
Show caption
1/1
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A museum is celebrating 50 years since the opening of a pottery studio in an East Cambridgeshire village.

Set up by Chris Jakes, the exhibition at Prickwillow Engine Museum marks half a century since Prickwillow Pottery was opened by Margot and the late Derek Andrews.

The pottery was a key part of village life for 20 years, producing a variety of items including mugs, jugs, dolls, house plates, and the popular Jack Spratt gravy boat.

The Andrews' journey began in 1974 after 20 years of teaching when they decided to start their own pottery.

Prickwillow Pottery celebrated Prickwillow Pottery is celebrating 50 years (Image: Prickwillow Engine Museum) They transformed a rundown coal store in Prickwillow into the successful Prickwillow Pottery.

The couple retired and moved in 1995, but their legacy continues with many of their works now on display at the museum.

The exhibition, which opened on Sunday, August 31, during an event featuring running engines and classic cars, unfortunately missed Margot Andrews, who was hospitalised at the time.

Prickwillow Pottery studio celebrated at museum exhibition Prickwillow Pottery studio celebrated at museum exhibition (Image: Prickwillow Engine Museum) Sonia Lewis now owns the building, maintaining the pottery tradition and opening during Cambridgeshire Open Studios.

The exhibition, which features many of Margot and Derek's works, fills two display cabinets and is complemented by display boards illustrating their life in the village.

Mary Saggs, a visitor at the exhibition, reminisced about her mother's work at the pottery and a unique cement mixer piece made for her father.

READ MORE: Latest planning applications in East Cambridgeshire

Sally Dunham, a professional sculptor, shared her gratitude for her first experience with clay at Prickwillow Pottery, which marked the beginning of her 27-year career.

Another first-time visitor recalled visiting the village to buy doll parts for his mother.

Maggie Clarke, reflecting on the village's history, said: "This celebration of the 50th anniversary of the pottery is a thank you to Derek and Margot for making special and personal memories for so many people."

The exhibition will be open at the museum until the Christmas Run Day on December 7.


Keep up to date with the latest news across East Cambridgeshire by signing up to our newsletter email alerts here


Have you got a story you want to share with us? Get in touch at: newsdesk@elystandard.co.uk.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos