Clever inventors proud to be geeks
Inspiring hackspace club needs a new home
Model helicopters, cups produced using 3D printers and even crimefighting technology – those are just a few of the things a group of Maidstone hobbyists have been making.
Described as a “knitting club for geeks”, the hackspace was set up a year ago by a group of like-minded friends who wanted to inspire innovation in the fields of art, maths and science.
The not-for-profit community of enthusiasts comes together to learn new skills, share ideas and work together on projects, as well as to socialise.
But Maidstone Hackspace is now looking for a permanent home, where equipment such as soldering irons are available 24/7.
Simon Ridley, co-founder and secretary of the club, say it has helped him in his work in digital forensics.
Through his involvement in hackspaces he went from failing electronics at school to be able to write programmes and even leading the way in new methods of crime detection, using wireless signals from broadband routers.
The 25-year-old, from Lenham, said: “I never had an interest in science at school but I think it is fantastic to see a lot of people get together to do and make things. It is really inspiring and has really helped me in my job.
“I have made a 3D printer from scratch and even printed another 3D printer using the one I had made.
“What we really want is to raise awareness of the club to get some new members and help find a permanent base so we can go on to create more things together.”
The group meets fortnightly on Wednesdays from 5.30pm, alternating between the Malta Inn in Lock Lane and Maidstone Community Centre in Marsham Street. It welcomes members of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. For more visit www. maidstone-hackspace.org.uk