Up Close is an interview series for Biddulph Nub News, talking to local people about their businesses, hobbies, or anything else they want to chat about!

In the latest instalment of Up Close we spoke to Biddulph's Craig Galley about his DIY business, Galway Developments.

The business offers items from a mini digger to a carpet cleaner, as well as advice on how people can embark on larger DIY projects of their own.

Craig told us what its been like to run a DIY business during the Coronavirus pandemic, and discussed how people can enjoy taking on DIY projects.

Read the interview below...

When did you set up the business in the local area, and what kind of services are you offering?

"The business was set up in August 2019. We offer a full range of services including tool and equipment hire, construction professional services, including freelance project management and snagging of new homes and development services offering building services on either a larger or small basis."

What is your role at the business and what does it entail?

"My role within the business covers many aspects. I oversee all the projects that we are involved with. Within the hire sector I source the tools and equipment ensuring that only the best and most reliable products are available.

"I deliver the tools and equipment to the customer and give any help and advice that they may require. Having customers that are confident using the tools and equipment is one of the main emphasis of the business."

How is business going at the moment? What has it been like to run the business during the pandemic?

"The business is very busy at the moment, the pandemic has meant that more people are taking on DIY projects and are requiring the tools to make these projects easier."

What is the DIY business like at the moment? Have there been any particular challenges caused by Coronavirus? Has it also caused any positive effects?

"At the moment people are spending more time at home and are concentrating more on DIY projects. The Coronavirus has caused a shortage of a lot of key materials required for both the DIY market and the construction industry in general.

"Items such as cement and plaster have been very difficult to source. Material sourcing is something that we can assist with if a homeowner is taking on a project. I think that one positive is that people have been encouraged to have a go at doing projects that they may not normally attempt."

Would you encourage people to have a go at taking on their own DIY projects? What advice would you give to someone hoping to get into DIY, and what would you say to encourage them to give it a go?

"I would always encourage people to take on their own projects. Successfully completing a project gives an immense sense of achievement, although projects can be difficult and challenging completing them is very rewarding.

"If someone wanted to attempt a project I would advise them to firstly do their research, ensure that they get the correct materials for the project and that they have all of the tools that they require, take their time and work methodically.

"Always remember to plan out the project, give yourself as much space as possible and don't rush. We do offer professional tool kits for Tiling, Plastering and Bricklaying that are aimed at the DIYer. These include all of the hand tools that would be required to take on a project and advice can be given."

Are you a fan of DIY yourself and have you undertaken any interesting projects of your own? Have you helped other people with any interesting projects?

"Having worked within the Construction Industry for over 20 years, I have probably tackled every DIY job imaginable, from small repair jobs to fully rebuilding my own homes.

"I have also helped friends with some interesting projects over the years including full restorations of listed buildings. I have also managed the build of large and small housing estates, care homes and fire stations."

Could DIY be a fun way for people to keep themselves occupied if they are locked down in their homes?

"DIY can be fun, it can be something that everybody can get involved with, and once you have all of your materials and tools you don't need to leave your home, so in times of lockdown it can be a perfect pastime that's very rewarding."

Are you from Biddulph? If so, how long have you lived here, and what do you think of the area?

"I am not originally from Biddulph, I moved here around six years ago but I think that it is a really nice place with lots of friendly people."

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

"I would just like to mention that we offer a full range of tools and equipment from Diggers and Dumpers to Carpet Cleaners."

If you would like to visit the Galway Developments website, click here.

Have you got a hobby, business or interest you want to promote? Let us know and we would love to interview you about it! Just message us on Facebook or email [email protected]