Mike Penning MP impressed by The Paper Trail
24th February 2006
On Friday 24th February, Mike Penning visited The Paper Trail Project at “The Cottage” and at Frogmore Mill, Apsley.
Mike Penning was shown around the project by Cheif Executive, Jacky Bennett and was impressed by the wide range of activities and the enthusiastic support of the volunteers. Apsley, Nash Mills and Two Waters have a long history of papermaking based on the waters of the Gade Valley. Mike learned about the history of paper making in the area and also about today’s educational activities undertaken by the project.
He also received a tour of the world’s first mechanised paper mill at Frogmore Mill and saw manufacture of recycled paper including some made from recycled banknotes.
After the visit, Mike commented: “I was fascinated by the work of the Paper Trail project and would encourage anyone who has an interest in the history of our town to make the effort to visit. I am very impressed that what was such an important local industry is being kept alive in this way and I thoroughly commend the work of the project staff, the volunteers and the involvement of so many young people.
I was particularly interested in the old fire engine and have promised to help out with the restoration project in the future.”
