The inspiration

Keeping traditions alive

Mike Howarth spent most of his career making radio programmes for the BBC. One of his last interviews was with a craftsman making ship's fenders in the traditional way. “For once I thought I could do it myself instead of just watching and holding a microphone." I like to make items that remind people of the beach and all those good times. Unique, one-off items that use subtly coloured rope from the beach to create intriguing objects created using traditional techniques.

“I enjoy finding rope on the beach and creating useful decorations for the home. It is important to keep the old traditions alive.”

See the Showcase for his images that have inspired the process.