EAST ANGLIA
MASTER THATCHERS
ASSOCIATION
Below is a summary of the history and aims of the association. the official website can now be accessed at www.masterthatcher.net
The East Anglia Master Thatchers Association has its origins in Suffolk. After the 1939/45 war a small band of thatchers decided to ensure the maintenance of standards of excellence in the county by founding an association.
Subsequently, in 1949, under the auspices of the then Rural Industries Bureau, responsible for the provision of a service of technical, management and training advice to small industries in rural areas, the Suffolk Master Thatchers association came into being.
From 1977 thatchers from other counties in the region were able to apply for membership of the Suffolk M.T.A. Finally, as its membership had widened, it was decided in 1988 to form a regional body and call it East Anglia M.T.A. This now covers Suffolk, Norfolk, Hertfordshire and Lincolnshire and represents county interests at the National Council of Master Thatchers Associations.
Membership
Membership of the association is restricted to thatchers who submit their work to the rigorous scrutiny of a standards committee and their membership only remains valid for so long as they maintain such standards. Only full members are entitled to refer to their membership in business transactions.
Most full members hold certificates issued by COSIRA for their work in Long Straw, Water Reed and Combined Wheat Reed. These certificates are neither lightly nor quickly awarded and depend on close scrutiny of their work at every stage.
Primary Aims
The Association primary aims are equally to provide the owners of thatched properties, which are now substantial and appreciating investments, with a highly satisfactory and dependable service and to protect the reputations of its members.
In the belief that a satisfied customer is the best recommendation all members of the Association are expected to offer the names of persons for whom they have worked so that potential clients can satisfy themselves as to their credentials. Owners are strongly advised to bear this in mind before entering a firm agreement for the repair or re-thatching of their property.
Thatch expertly applied and maintained is cool in summer and hot in winter. Its excellent insulation properties and the consequent conservation of energy represent considerable savings in fuel costs. Thatch need not be an expensive liability. Regular maintenance will prolong its life and maintain its attractive appearance and investment value but sound advice and expert craftsmanship are essential.
There are commercial enterprises of various kinds with doubtful standards and questionable aspirations claiming the expertise of Master Thatchers which is not evident in the work they do.
The Association’s expert and progressive approach is your best insurance against costly failure. Sound craftsmanship coupled with traditional and attractive design are the qualities that matter. Why not insist upon them?
The Association is recognised by reputable bodies as the effective organisation representing the craft in East Anglia. If you need professional advice please contact your nearest member at the official website of the EAMTA by clicking on the following link www.masterthatcher.net