A BESPOKE joinery business in the Dales has been carving itself quite a reputation.

So much so that Rylstone-based James Wilding Joinery has won both the Rising Star and Outstanding Achievement awards at the GGP Installer Awards ceremony held at Manchester’s Albert Hall recently.

The business is run by husband and wife, James and Emily, who are both Craven born and bred - James from Conistone and Emily from Litton.

Emily explained: “James started the business back in 2014, with 10 years’ experience in the trade, operating from a tiny workshop in Gargrave.

“After growing the business for a number of years, the business moved into the National Park to a much larger workshop in Rylstone.”

Emily handles the office and social media side of the business. They now employ a number of highly skilled joiners and cabinetmakers, all of whom have grown up in the Craven area.

“James also finds time to train our most recent apprentice, Grassington lad Harrison. Keen on passing on his knowledge of both sides of the job, manufacture and installation, which is rare nowadays.”

The FENSA registered company offers fully finished bespoke joinery products throughout the area to both the trade and public. Specialising in timber doors and windows as well as fitted wardrobes and handcrafted kitchens. Prior to this it won best Bespoke Joinery Service at the Yorkshire Prestige Awards 21/22, which was a huge boost to the moral of the company. The Wildings said it is always lovely to get recognition for the work you do.

As with most businesses, there have been many challenges posed by the Covid 19 pandemic. They furloughed all their staff right at the start to make sure that they and their families were safe.

Meanwhile, James continued to work tirelessly to keep the business afloat and work flowing. He had to undertake every aspect of the business alone, like in the early days, from sanding and spraying to installing the products on his own until he was able to bring the staff back to the workshop.

Other challenges faced were the difficulty in procuring materials and the impossible task of scheduling work when people had to isolate.

“Making sure there was communication between us and our customers and managing expectations was a tough job, however we had to make sure people were not left in the dark. This has lead to more excellent feedback along with many repeat orders,” said Emily.

The pair were thrilled with the feedback from judges following the latest accolades who said he was a ‘great advert for the industry’.

The GGP Installer Awards is tailored to acknowledge and reward the hard work and professionalism of the UK’s window, door and conservatory installers.