We at Pentland & Chandler Construction are incredibly honoured to be featured in Witney Town magazine, recognising our team’s efforts in helping a local family rebuild their home after a heartbreaking experience with a rogue builder. When we learned of Tom Walsh, Elisa Sonaglioni, and their young son’s plight, we felt compelled to step in. They had saved and planned for years to turn their Upper Rissington house into a family home, only to be left with a dangerously unsafe structure. The builder they had trusted had not only walked away with thousands of pounds but had left their home on the brink of collapse.

As builders with deep roots in Oxfordshire, we believe that no family should endure such distress, especially in their own home. After seeing Elisa’s social media post, we knew we couldn’t stand by. Our team sprang into action, working evenings and weekends to provide free labour and materials to stabilise the structure and restore some peace of mind to the family. It has been incredibly humbling to see the community rally around this cause. Thanks to generous contributions from local suppliers like Witney Steel Stock and Witney Plant Hire, we were able to replace defective beams, shore up structural weaknesses, and help ensure that the house is now safe.

This project has been a true team effort, and we couldn’t be prouder of everyone who stepped forward. Tom, Elisa, and their little boy deserve a home where they can create happy memories, not endure nightmares. Being able to give back in this way is exactly why we do what we do. As we continue our work, we’re reminded of the kindness and resilience of our community. We’re grateful to have played a role in turning things around for this family, and we look forward to seeing them finally settle into their dream home.

If you’d like to learn more about what we do or how we’re supporting local families and businesses, please reach out. Our doors are always open to those in need.