22 winters
Malcolm and Sandra Hobbs have been staying on Tresco throughout winter for 22 years; a carpenter and joiner, Malcolm has contributed to projects all over the island but it is time he put his feet up!
Every winter, contractors, builders and trades flock to the island to work on our cottages as well as our eateries and leisure facilities. A huge amount of work goes into keeping our island beautiful and one person who knows this more than most is Malcolm Hobbs. A skilled carpenter and joiner, he - along with wife Sandra - has been staying on Tresco for 22 years, working across the island throughout the winter and making his mark. He is set to complete his final winter and we want to pay homage to the work he has done over the years and say thank you to both him and Sandra for becoming part of the island community every winter.
They first visited the island over 30 years ago when son Richard Hobbs had just moved here. They instantly loved the island and Malcolm even ended up helping out with some carpentry at Ivy Cottage. Dean walked past and liked what he'd done and the rest is history!
At first, Malcolm and Sandra visited for 6 weeks every winter but in more recent years they have come for 6 months, arriving in October and staying until the start of the season in March. They have tried out a few cottages over the years and 'each has its own character,' says Sandra, but the first cottage they ever stayed in was Wigeon and - to this day - it is their favourite. 'The peace, the sunrise and sunset views - all the cottages are lovely in their own way but we love it here.'
Although the couple have marvelled at the beauty of the island for years, for Malcolm, work has been at the forefront of the visits - and he wouldn't have it any other way. In fact, he is rather reluctant to retire despite the fact that he turns 80 next year! He has contributed to many jobs; first and foremost the refurbishment of Farmhouse in 2003, the refit of Dairy Flat which he carried out single-handedly, the refurb of Townshill as well as the decking at Kittiwake and Puffin, and many many more.
It is important to mention that Sandra wasn't sat idle either! For many years she put up and decorated all the Christmas trees in the cottages - sometimes as many as 54 and all on her own! Moreover, over time she has helped decorate St Nicholas' Church ready for festive celebrations.
Between them, Malcolm and Sandra have had a big impact on Tresco and we are so grateful for their commitment and hard work.
We hope you continue to visit us and are wishing you all the best.
