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Stanley Archibald Potts (born 1943) studied violin playing from an early age as a child, his mother always intending that he pursue a career as a famous soloist. Tragically, a promising future was cut short in 1962 when, at the age of 19, Potts badly damaged a tendon in his left hand whilst opening a can of Heinz Baked Beans. Luckily Potts had another string to a different bow in his violin case - he had also been working part-time for a number of years in the workshop of the highly respected violin maker and repairer, Arthur Pemberton; and so Stanley Potts successfully refocussed his sights on a new and different challenge: the making and repairing of orchestral stringed instrument's.

Through his apprenticeship with Pemberton, Stanley Potts was initiated into a long and illustrious family of British makers, extending back to the great names of Dodd, Withers and Lott. Stanley is justifiably proud of his impressive pedigree and he continues to uphold and maintain the fine traditions of British violin making.

Today Stanley Potts has a busy workshop in Dorking, catering to a wide variety of clientele - from bumbling beginner's to a number of well-known professionals. Whilst most of his working days are taken up with repair work for demanding customers, Potts still tries to find some time each week to devote to the making of new instruments. His violins are modelled on the work of John Lott and are always keenly awaited with great anticipation by a number of well-known professionals.

Career Highlights:

1943 - Born

1949 - Began violin studies under the tutelage of Miss Hazel Wotherspoon

1957 - Awarded second prize (with meritorious mention) in the Surrey Eisteddfod, junior string section

1962 - Tragic accident sadly spells the end of Potts's playing career

1963 - Potts completes first violin under guidance of his mentor, Arthur Pemberton

1964 - Sets up his own workshop in the High Street, Dorking

1980 - Arthur Pemberton passes away, bequeathing all of his wood, tools and customers to Potts

1993 - Potts apppointed Official Repairer to the Music Department of St. Marks School, Dorking

2003 - England wins Rugby World Cup