On the 28^th March we will reach the four years anniversary since the Porlock Repair Café was started. The vast majority of initial volunteers are still with us, together with some new recruits, so thanks to them for giving up their time to help Porlock residents.

During that time, we have had over 1,400 items brought in, of which 82% have been successfully repaired.

Probably the most unusual thing we have mended is a “full size” Dalek head – its lights and sound had failed.

The main work is on normal day to day items, typically hoovers, kettles, toasters, lamps, sewing repairs & sharpening a variety of items. Overall, we have saved 1.75 tons from being thrown away. All electrical items have a Portable Appliances Electrical test completed before returning to the owner, to ensure their safety.

We have 15 volunteer repairers who can tackle most items, we would love to try and restore an item for you, or at least confirm it’s time to let it go for something new! Whilst the majority of items are repaired on the day, some do require more extensive work and the volunteer takes these home to finish the repair.

We don’t have any set charges for repairs; it is purely donations based on what you think the service has been worth to you.

Types of items repaired, although not exhaustive, are:

Clothes	Furniture	Electrical appliances & testing
Toys	Tools	Sharpening, welding, silver soldering
Mechanical/clocks	Phones	Electronics

If you are unsure whether we have a volunteer who can look at your item, & want to check before bringing it in, please email us at 4rsporlockvale@gmail.com  with details of your item & we can advise you.

Future Repair Café events are:

March – 28th	April – 25th	May – 30th
June – 27th	July – 25th	August – 29th

We are open 10am to 12 noon at Porlock Village Hall.

Whilst you are waiting to see a repairer you can take advantage of, for a small contribution, the available coffee, tea & cakes. Actually, we have a few people who come in just for the homemade cakes and a chat with friends.

Also, in the last four years additional Repair Cafés have set up in Minehead, Carhampton, Watchet & Bridgwater, whilst we led the way it is great that more people are stepping up to help other locations.