Simon Watkin’s career is a remarkable example of dedication to traditional craft, self-taught expertise and a lifetime commitment to quality workmanship. Now aged 70, Simon’s journey into the building trades was far from conventional. After completing a three-year Fine Arts degree, he moved to the South East in his early twenties and initially made a living running an art studio in Brighton, selling his own work. However, seeking greater financial stability, he began undertaking regular gardening work, which gradually evolved into repairing garden walls across the Ouse Valley area.

It was during this time, in his late twenties and early thirties, that Simon developed a deep interest in traditional building methods. With no formal training he began to teach himself the art of traditional flint walling, dedicating evenings to researching historic techniques and the use of lime mortars. In the early years, he also spent countless hours hand-selecting and gathering flint from local fields, carefully sourcing his own materials to ensure both quality and authenticity. Through persistence, curiosity and a genuine respect for heritage materials, he honed a highly specialised skillset that is now increasingly rare.

As Simon’s reputation grew locally, so too did the demand for his work. In the 1990s, his work came to the attention of the late Lord Hampden who contacted him directly and requested to view a number of his completed projects. Following this visit, and recognising the quality of Simon’s workmanship, instructions were given to the Estate Manager at the time to engage Simon in the repair and restoration of flint walls across the Glynde Estate including maintenance work on Glynde Place.

Since that time, Simon has worked on the estate for the majority of his career, becoming a trusted and highly valued craftsperson. His contribution has extended across numerous projects, where his knowledge of traditional materials and techniques has ensured that repairs and new work sit comfortably within their historic context. His work is not only structurally sound but visually authentic, maintaining the character and heritage of the estate for future generations.

At Comps Cottage, Simon’s expertise played an important role in maintaining the integrity and appearance of the flint-faced extension, ensuring that the refurbishment respected the building’s original character while meeting modern standards. His approach is defined by patience, attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to doing things properly , qualities that are increasingly rare in the modern construction industry.

What sets Simon apart is not just his technical ability, but the way in which he has built his career. Entirely self-taught, he has spent decades refining his craft through hands-on experience, research and a genuine passion for traditional construction. His story reflects a deep respect for heritage skills and a quiet dedication to excellence that has earned him long-standing trust and recognition.

Simon Watkin represents the very best of traditional craftsmanship: skilled, reliable and deeply knowledgeable, with a body of work that continues to enhance and protect the built heritage of the Glynde Estate and elsewhere in this area.

Simon has made an exceptional contribution to the architectural and heritage landscape of Sussex. He is a deeply deserving recipient of the 2026 Sussex Heritage Trust Person of the Year Award.