Craftsman and Partner at Muchelney Pottery
Ben Leach, eldest son of the late John Leach, brings a deep sense of heritage and craft to Muchelney Pottery. A craftsmen with a lifetime’s experience in stone carving, woodworking, sculpture and now developing his own signature pottery pieces since becoming involved again at the pottery in 2020. He now helps lead the business alongside Rachael Rees who manages the office.
Continuing the Legacy
With a steady hand and thoughtful approach, Ben continues the legacy of Muchelney in his own way — carving hand-made seals that are often impressed on pieces to mark special anniversaries and events. For the pottery’s 60th anniversary, he crafted a commemorative stamp which has been applied to special mugs. He has also carved a badge which bears John Leach’s iconic phrase: “Potters of the world, IGNITE!” — pressed into stoneware and fired in the kiln.
Dedicated to Maintaining the Ethos
Together with the rest of the pottery crew, Ben is dedicated to maintaining the ethos of his father’s original designs and working practices. Their collective aim is to carry forward the rich tradition of studio pottery that John created here at Muchelney. Keeping it alive, evolving, and firmly rooted in the tradition and Somerset.