KS Thatchers was established in 1976 in Kings Somborne in the heart of the Test Valley by Chris Morton.

When was still a teenager Chris had a strong ambition to be a thatcher. But how?  There were no careers advice for the centuries-old craft or any recognised apprentice scheme. He spent five years training as a roofer gaining much valuable knowledge and experience which he uses to this day, but it was not how he wanted to spend his life. The only way to learn to be a thatcher was to work alongside a master craftsmen.

He was so determined that at weekends, on his days off, he would cycle nine miles to the New Forest to work, unpaid, with Derek Smith and George Wright two craftsmen of the highest calibre and reputation.

Over the years he gradually acquired the skills of a thatcher, learning the essential stages which must be carefully and patiently completed for a successful thatch.

Setting up a company was a bold step but Chris knew there were plenty of thatched houses and cottages in Hampshire and neighbouring counties to provide employment.

And so it has proved with many homes in the area protected by a KS Thatchers thatch.

In 1999 their son, Simon became an apprentice to his father and uncle. He is now a journeyman an essential stage on his way to becoming a Master Thatcher. The three are an established team.

When needed Chris and Simon hire other craftsmen for a specific task. They have built up a data base of reliable people who fit in with the high standards working patterns of K. S. Thatchers.