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We are the furniture restoration co-operative in Chelmsford, Essex.
MillRace is situated in two buildings to the rear of Moulsham Mill. The origins of the Mill go back to Saxon times and a mill is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. The present site was a working mill until the mid-1970s.
Moulsham Mill now houses around 35 small businesses and charities in a pleasant riverside setting. This includes a craft area with a tea and coffee shop where meals are served.
Parking is free, and there is a bus stop on the main road, approximately one minute away, served by frequent buses.
MillRace furniture has been established as a business since 1995 and is also an approved City and Guilds Training center. Our aim is to provide a wide range of professional services at competitive rates.
Furniture Restoration Tutor
Master The Basics Instructor
Ceramic Basics Instructor
Ceramics Superhero Instructor
On our 10th anniversary in 2005, the following article (by Anne Fitzgerald) appeared in the Essex Chronicle on 24th November:
MillRace Furniture Restoration Co-operative’s workshop is a hive of activity.
Skills including French polishing an upholstery, along with chair caning and rush seating are put to good use to restore antique and modern furniture for customers. Picture framing is also undertaken, and a range of restored furniture is on sale.
The co-operative, at Moulsham Mill in Parkway, Chelmsford, originally formed as a social enterprise for people recovering from long-term mental health problems, is now celebrating its 10th year as a small independent business and social firm.
Paul Richmond, secretary at MillRace Furniture, said: “The co-operative had its beginnings in a small workshop founded to provide a supportive environment for socially excluded and disadvantaged people recovering from mental health problems or with disabilities.”
“These people take part in training and gain experience working alongside experienced furniture restorers. Much of the time they are directly involved in the services the co-operative offers.”
“All of them find that the experience has a positive effect on their problems. The co-operative makes a real difference to the individuals involved and more broadly makes a contribution that benefits the community.”
Several years ago, the organization became an accredited City and Guilds training center offering nationally recognized qualifications in many subjects, including cabinet making, French polishing, and chair caning.
The training aspect has been expanded, offering around 20 places a week. Evening classes are also held for members of the public.
“The co-operative and its members always welcome visitors who want to know more about the services we provide and the social aim that is integral to our work,” said Paul.
“In our 10-year history, we have received invaluable assistance from other organizations and individuals – these include Chelmsford Star Co-operative, Social Firms For Essex, Chelmsford Voluntary Service, Croft, and most recently Business Link.”
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Dan Smith
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Mary D. Hall