Mill expert helps illustrate papermaking story

28 September 2025

Eric JohnsonHertfordshire

News image — Sue Woolnough had to sign a non-disclosure agreement when she was told about the Julia Donaldson book

Sue Woolnough A woman with blonde hair and grey top holds a copy of Paper Chase, while stood in front of blue barrels used for papermaking. — Sue Woolnough had to sign a non-disclosure agreement when she was told about the Julia Donaldson book

A new children's book written by the author of The Gruffalo has featured the workings of machinery at a historical paper mill.

The Frogmore Paper Mill in the Apsley area of Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, was contacted by the editor for technical advice to accurately illustrate the papermaking process.

Sue Woolnough, education and design manager at the mill, said she had no idea at first who was writing it but later found out it was for a Julia Donaldson book.

Frogmore, recognised as the world's oldest mechanised paper mill, has been closed since a fire in 2022, with full tours expected to resume in 2026.

Sue Woolnough A children's book, Paper Chase, is opened with illustrations of the papermaking process. Colourful drawings of a woman, and also a man in a yellow high-vis, can be seen. — Paper Chase is illustrated with help from Sue Woolnough at the historical Frogmore Paper Mill in Apsley

The collaboration focused on helping illustrator Victoria Sandøy depict the machinery and process used in traditional papermaking.

Elements of Frogmore's fourdrinier paper machine from 1902 inspired parts of the artwork.

Frogmore Paper Mill A wide view shot of a blue historical papermaking machine at the Frogmore Paper Mill in Apsley. Behind the machine is a green fire escape sign, with a door underneath. A person can just about be seen in the far left. — The book editor wanted to ensure the illustrations for Paper Chase were accurate by referencing historical machinery

Mrs Woolnough told BBC Three Counties Radio that the request came from book editor Alison Green, who needed help ensuring the illustrations for Paper Chase were accurate.

"We had phone calls and a Zoom meeting. I saw some rough drafts and gave feedback," she said.

She added that the project was kept confidential for several months.

"Once it was confirmed who the author was, I was asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement."

Sue Woolnough The exterior of Frogmore Paper Mill in Apsley, taken on a sunny day with the building reflecting in the water. — Fundraising efforts have been ongoing at the world's oldest mechanised paper mill since a fire in 2022

The mill, operated by the Apsley Paper Trail Trust, suffered extensive damage in a fire in January 2022, which destroyed historical documents and artefacts.

Two teenagers admitted to starting the blaze and were sentenced in court.

Despite the setback, the site is preparing to reopen for limited "hard hat" tours from 15 October.

"We're not quite where we want to be, but it's perfectly safe," Mrs Woolnough said.

"There's lots to see and learn, and people will be able to witness the progress first-hand."

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