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Keep The Belt Makers Going While Mark Fights Cancer
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£140 raised of
7 donations
Keep The Belt Makers Going While Mark Fights Cancer
We are Mark and Marie Buckfield, trading as The Belt Makers in Exeter, Devon.
Since 2003, we’ve built our small workshop into a respected business known for crafting belts that truly stand the test of time. Many of our original customers now bring their children in for their first “grown-up” belt — something we’re deeply proud of.
Over the years, we’ve weathered COVID, Brexit, and financial crashes, always managing to keep our craft alive. Mark, a National Award-winning craftsman for Excellence of Craftsmanship, recognised by the Society of Master Saddlers , has poured his heart into this work and hopes to pass his skills on to others.
A Sudden and Serious Challenge
Recently, Mark was diagnosed with two types of cancer.
A routine blood test revealed prostate cancer, serious enough to require complete removal. During pre-surgery scans, doctors also discovered a tumour in his right lung.
Because lung cancer progresses much faster, it must be treated first. Mark is scheduled for major surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung on Friday, 12 November, followed by at least three months of recovery. Once he’s strong enough, he’ll undergo a second operation to remove the prostate, with another three months’ recovery ahead.
How This Affects The Belt Makers
As the chief belt maker, Mark’s absence is a huge blow to our small team and our livelihood.
We’re raising funds to keep the workshop running during his treatment and recovery — to pay our trained staff, maintain stock, and continue fulfilling orders.
The cost of skilled labour has risen sharply in recent years, and it will take several of us to cover all that Mark usually does.
Marie will oversee production and uphold the high standards that have earned our belts their reputation — worn proudly in such renowned London areas as Savile Row, Jermyn Street, Knightsbridge, and Kensington.
Our Goal
Our goal is simple:
To ensure there’s a thriving, fully functioning business for Mark to return to — and, if possible, to keep moving it forward in his absence.
Your support means we can pay our small team, keep making belts, and protect the future of a traditional craft that means the world to us.
Learn More
For more about our business and craft, visit:
Questions or messages of support are always welcome:
Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.
Marie x
Organizer
