Chainsaw carver and sculptor in Louth lands contract for Viking Way benches
An innovative business near Louth, run by a professional chainsaw carver and sculptor, has won a prestigious contract to supply wooden benches for the Viking Way.
Xtreme Chainsaw, spearheaded by Simon Bogg, is a chainsaw-carving and bespoke joinery company that transforms standing trees and logs into customised, wooden art pieces, public displays and site-specific sculptures.
Talented Simon has been plying his trade for more than 27 years, But now he has announced “exciting news” after being chosen as the preferred supplier by Lincolnshire County Council to design, manufacture and deliver five custom wooden benches for the famous 147-mile trail.
He said: “This is such a proud moment for us. Not only because it’s a major project but also because we get to be part of enhancing a trail that so many people love.
"The Viking Way stretches through some of Lincolnshire’s most beautiful countryside, and now we will be leaving our mark along the route.”
The council invited Xtreme Chainsaw to submit a tender for the project and after submitting his ideas, Simon was thrilled to win the contract, which was a big vote of confidence in his skills.
"We’ve already met the council team we’ll be working with, and they are just as passionate as we are,” Simon went on.
"Being able to collaborate closely with them means we can make these benches not only functional but also full of character.
"Each bench will be carefully crafted using tough, sustainable hardwood that’s built to last outdoors.
"The first bench will be installed in Woodhall Spa this September – and we couldn’t be more excited.
"Woodhall Spa is a gorgeous place with so much history and charm – and it’s the perfect spot to begin the journey."
Simon started his working life as a builder and joiner, but it took a new turn when his mum asked him to carve her a mushroom because she had seen one on TV!
"I borrowed a chainsaw and got to work,” he recalled. “I soon realised I was pretty good at carving and soon got lots of orders.
"As my confidence grew, I moved on to carving sculptures of bears and owls and, here I am, years later, having produced thousands of chainsaw sculptures, ranging from birds to full-size motorbikes.”
Simon gave up building because he preferred working with wood. As well as creating stunning pieces with carving, he concentrates on bespoke joinery, through which Xtreme Chainsaw now produces everything from full staircases to traditional oak roof trusses.
"Landing this Viking Way contract is more than just a job for us,” he said. “It’s proof that hand-made craftsmanship still matters.
"We’re proud to be a Lincolnshire business, creating something for Lincolnshire people (and visitors!) to enjoy.
"We thank the county council for this amazing opportunity and all our supporters for cheering us on.”
You can follow the Viking Way benches project as it progresses by logging on to Xtreme Chainsaw’s website.