Bidding farewell to the iconic Derrick Crane symbolizes the dawn of a new era at Yandles.

Bidding farewell to the iconic Derrick Crane symbolizes the dawn of a new era at Yandles.

Having graced our landscape for almost a century, the difficult decision to remove this historic landmark became imperative. A cherished centrepiece of Yandles and the village of Martock, the crane, which stood tall since its erection in 1939, played a crucial role in our history.

Originally transported to Yandles by train and then drawn to the site by horses, the Derrick Crane served faithfully for over 50 years. In its heyday, it efficiently unloaded timber from several lorries daily, each piece carefully handled by the sturdy crane. However, by the year 1990, it was deemed unsafe for operation, leading to its decommissioning. Despite being retired from active duty, the crane remained a prominent and beloved landmark for an additional 34 years.

The decision to remove the crane was not taken lightly but was necessitated by safety concerns and the substantial investment required for its preservation. As we say goodbye to this historical landmark, we embrace a promising future with the initiation of a multimillion-pound redevelopment at Yandles, scheduled to commence in 2024.

The project will see the addition of three new retail shops, an expanded and improved café, an enhanced timber selection, a larger parking area, and new warehousing facilities. This expansion is in response to the substantial growth of our business, both in-store and online. To align with our commitment to sustainability, the new site will be equipped with solar panels and electric vehicle charging points, ensuring a modern and environmentally conscious approach to our operations.

As we say goodbye to the past, we eagerly anticipate the beginning of a new chapter in the rich history of Yandles.

Posted by rhys rhys
21st February 2024
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