For many years I have used solid wood benches in my workshop but they are showing signs of fairly serious wear and tear. i.e. splintering and oiliness. This is not too much of a problem with steam locomotives but I am rekindling my interest in model aircraft and they need a cleaner environment. I am contemplating replacing the old benches with "Kitchen Worktops" as supplied by the likes of B&Q. These appear to be plenty rigid enough (38mm chipboard) and have a hard, plastic surface which is durable, non absorbent, and easy to clean. Only one thing worries me slightly - I don't know anybody who has tried it. What about you guys? Barrie Purslow Warrington U.K. MODEL ENGINEERING DISCUSSION LIST. To UNSUBSCRIBE from this list, send a blank email to, modeleng-request@xxxxxxxxxxxxx with the word "unsubscribe" in the subject line.