Model cello made by pupils at Kirkcudbright Academy

This model cello made by pupils of Kirkcudbright Academy, for the puppet of the famous cellist, Madame Suggia.  It would have featured in the puppet show they presented, under the direction of their crafts master, James G Jeffs.   James G Jeffs ("Tim") was born on 25th April 1904. After leaving school he trained as an engineer, but became assistant curator at Dumfries Museum prior to WWII. In 1945 Jeffs and his wife moved to Kirkcudbright with their daughter, and Jeffs began teaching at the Academy there. He converted a row of cottages into a home and studio and soon became involved in craft work full time. His particular interests were weaving spinning, woodworking and calligraphy. He was responsible for many "Burgess Tickets" and other presentation certificates. He was drowned in a boating accident on Loch Ken in 1975.