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JR competition


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the JR competition is a cracking way of show casing your talents & believe you me, ANYONE can do it.

 

When I started my shop, I'd never used an outsole stitcher, fudge wheel or edging iron. Over the years I've gleamed information & help when & where I can.

 

At first I was bitterly disappointed with third this year, but spent time (despite being far to busy with the stand) talking to Ray Barlow the adjudicator establishing the "why". Ray is a great man to talk to his knowledge is simply put "outstanding" he's a bloody nice man & the JR competition is lucky to have him.

 

I also sat with Peter Harris & the guys from Timpson for a bit & although their secrets are closely guarded you can pick up "snippets" here & there & listening to the wealth of skills & training at their disposal I'm mighty proud to be mixing it with the best in the country.

 

I spent a good amount of time on the JR stand looking at the shoes & today reflecting back, I'm happy with the result. Listening to the Timpson Team & looking at the shoes there is no doubt in my mind that the best shoes, with as much passion put into them as my own won through.

 

HOWEVER, watch out TIMPSON, it might not have been this year, it might not be next year BUT I'm coming for ya................

1st Ben Shelmerdine - TimpsonDSCI0101.jpg

 

2nd Keith Dutton - TimpsonDSCI0100.jpg

 

3rd Lee Ffrench - Cobb-LeesDSCI0098.jpg

 

 

Lee

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I don't think it was as many as in previous years, a dozen or so I believe which is a shame really as these skill competitions are part of the heritage of the industry & more should take the time to enter. But I feel even if 3 entered, the same care would be taken on the repairs & the result would be credible.

 

I spent £35 on the shoes, started them twice, used 7 pairs of JR soles to get it "right" (including using them for heel blocks) & 17 hours of hard graft. Knowing one of the two guys above me (sorry can't remember which one said it!) also started his shoes again you can take nothing away from the level of commitment those who do enter give it.

 

Lee

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