The National Society of Master Thatchers

We are a group of independent, like-minded people passionate about all things thatch. We care for and help to maintain the thatched roofs on properties of historical importance and beauty. To sustain a future for thatch we carry out research and support the mechanism of conservation and encourage new innovative design.

Mission Statement

To encourage, support and advance the craft of thatching and allied crafts.
To promote an understanding of Thatch and Thatching
To encourage and uphold a high standard of craftsmanship and business integrity.
To negotiate with official bodies on behalf of member thatchers.
To protect thatched properties through risk management and sharing of information.
To investigate and promote the development of new sources thatching materials.
To act as unbiased intermediary in a dispute between members and their clients
To be the resource of first choice for our members, their customers, conservation officers, the media and for all who care about thatch as part of our National Heritage.

History

Only recently, in the 20th century did thatchers form collectively. In 1947 county-based Master Thatcher Associations (MTAs) were formed to improve and encourage high standards. The 12 regional MTA’s came together in 1967 to create the National Society of Master Thatchers’ Associations (NSMTAs) in order to present a national voice for the industry. By 1977 it was realised that individuals wished to be recognised as Master Thatchers in their own right. To accommodate the individual members a new constitution was drawn up and the name changed to the National Society of Master Thatchers – NSMT. The name was changed to The National Society of Master Thatchers Limited in 2003 when the Society became incorporated as a Company Limited by Guarantee.

The National Society of Master Thatchers Ltd. represents about 350 thatchers or 30% of the thatching industry and is the lead body in thatching today in the UK.

In 2010 NSMT held a meeting with thatching societies from across the world to share information about techniques, materials and thatching in general. This has resulted in the formation of the International Thatching Society (ITS) and we have eight country members.

The term ‘Master Thatcher’ is in real terms the same as ‘thatcher’ in that there is no formal test to pass. However, the term has become associated with a thatcher who is able and competent and has served an apprenticeship to the satisfaction of their teacher.