Gainsborough College students give damaged bench a new lease of life

The Gainsborough Trinity Community Bench Project began in November 2015 and involved students from a range of vocational courses, together with local businesses, restoring a bench so that it can be enjoyed by the community for years to come.

Automotive Engineering student, Jordan Thistleton, said: “It has been brilliant working on this project, I have learned lots and it is great to gain experience alongside businesses and Gainsborough Trinity Football Club.

“I’m proud to show off the bench now that it is finished and it is great to be recognised for our hard work and dedication on a project that will be seen by lots of people.”

Students were joined by the Mayor of Gainsborough, representatives from local businesses and tutors at Gainsborough Trinity Football Club as they revealed the bench on January 22.

Mayor of Gainsborough, Coun Matt Boles, said: “The town benefits from everyone working together; by working with local businesses and the football club, students have been able to boost their employability and gain valuable skills.

“Before it was refurbished the bench had been a bit of an eyesore but now it is a prominent feature that can celebrate our community and with further development in that area due, this will be a nice place for people to sit.”

Automotive Engineering lecturer, Kev Gibbon, who co-ordinated the project, said: “This is a fantastic project that has been beneficial in so many ways; it has been a valuable enrichment opportunity for our students who have been able to get out into the community and engage with businesses – giving them the chance to gain skills and experience that will be valuable to any future employer.”