The Opposite Locksmith - Wilmslow Locksmiths

BBC investigation into rogue locksmiths

2026-02-17T03:34:07.347-08:00

BBC Investigation into Locksmiths. A recent investigation by the BBC has uncovered alarming practices among locksmiths, particularly in Essex and London. The investigation focused on "bait-and-switch" scams, where customers are lured in with low initial quotes, only to face exorbitant charges once the locksmith arrives.

Key Findings

Common Tactics Used by Rogue Locksmiths

Bait-and-Switch Pricing: Customers receive a low quote over the phone, but the final bill can be significantly higher.
Unnecessary Work: Locksmiths may drill locks or perform additional work that is not needed, leading to inflated costs.
Pressure Tactics: Customers are often pressured to pay cash or to agree to unnecessary replacements.

Case Examples

An elderly couple was quoted £49 but ended up paying over £2,800 after unnecessary damage was caused.
In a test conducted by the BBC, a locksmith quoted a low price but charged over ten times that amount after drilling the lock unnecessarily.

How to Avoid Locksmith Scams

Tips for Finding a Legitimate Locksmith

Research Local Options: Look for local locksmiths rather than national call centers.
Check Credentials: Verify if the locksmith is listed with the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA).
Request Clear Pricing: Always ask for a full price quote, not just a starting price.
Inquire About Methods: Ask if they can open the lock without drilling.

Being informed and cautious can help you avoid falling victim to locksmith scams.

Additional security for master bedroom

2026-01-08T09:23:39.895-08:00

In January 2026,

Cusworth Master Locksmithscompleted a residential security project for a home in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. The installation involved supplying and fitting a high-security cylinder deadlock with an internal thumbturn to the property's master bedroom.

Project Overview

The homeowner sought to balance high-level security with the safety of a quick exit, a common requirement for high-end residential properties in the Alderley Edge area. Cusworth Master Locksmiths, an MLA-approved company with over 25 years of experience, provided a tailored solution that met both insurance requirements and fire safety standards.

Security and Safety Features

The installed locking system utilized a security euro cylinder. This specific standard is designed for "keyless egress," ensuring that residents can exit the room quickly in an emergency without needing to find a key.

Anti-Snap Protection: The cylinder features a sacrificial snap line. In the event of a "lock snapping" attack, the front portion breaks away while the internal mechanism remains locked and secure.
Internal Thumbturn: This allows the master bedroom to be locked from the inside for privacy and security while remaining easily openable for a rapid exit in case of fire.
Security Grades: The hardware typically installed for such high-spec residential projects includes TS007 3-star rated cylinders, which are endorsed by the Police "Secured by Design" scheme for their resistance to drilling, picking, and bumping.

Benefits for Homeowners

Installing high-security deadlocks on internal bedroom doors has become a growing trend in luxury Cheshire homes for several reasons:

Peace of Mind: Provides a "safe room" environment during nighttime hours.
Convenience: The thumbturn eliminates the risk of leaving a key in the lock, which could otherwise block entry from the outside by other keyholders in an emergency.
Professional Fitting: Cusworth Locksmiths ensured the cylinder was fitted flush with the door furniture, preventing the common security mistake of leaving a protruding lock that burglars can easily grip and snap.

For residents in the SK9 area looking to upgrade their home security, Cusworth Master Locksmiths offers free security surveys and 24/7 emergency assistance.

Call text or WhatsApp 07792 517113

Additional nightlatch fitted to composite door

2025-12-12T14:00:44.844-08:00

A customer in Stockport quested an additional lock to be fitted to their composite door. It needed to be convenient to use during the day and provide extra security at night.

The Era Nightlatch fitted the bill perfectly.

They were delighted with the results

Internal door bolts

2025-12-03T09:28:57.168-08:00

We are regularly asked by landlords or home owners for simple locks on internal doors, such as bedrooms. It’s best practice to fit a security device which allows you to always open the door from inside without the key (keyless egress) the locks pictured satisfy this with an internal thumbturn.

Ideal for student accommodation or letting a private room.

Precise key cutting in Wilmslow

2025-11-13T08:22:55.035-08:00

Do you have visitors coming to stay for the festive period ?

Why not get a spare set of keys cut in good time and avoid any unecessary drama.

We expertly cut keys for all locks that we install and many others too. Plus Ultion or ABS from the code all done with the minimum of fuss.

https://cusworth.net/locksmith-services/key-cutting/

Give us a call ⁨07792 517113⁩

Secure Keysafes fitted

2025-11-06T07:25:39.990-08:00

Secure Your Home the Smart Way: Cusworth Master Locksmiths Installs Security Keysafes Across Wilmslow, Macclesfield, and Poynton

Wilmslow, November 2025 – Here at Cusworth Master Locksmiths, we understand that the safety of your home and loved ones is paramount. For years, we've been the trusted name in locksmith services across Cheshire, and our commitment to providing top-tier security solutions has never been stronger. That's why we are proud to announce our specialized service for the professional installation of high-security keysafes throughout the Wilmslow, Macclesfield, and Poynton areas.

In an age where convenience often compromises security, keysafes offer the perfect balance. They are an ideal solution for a multitude of needs, providing secure, controlled access for trusted individuals without the risks associated with hiding a key under a doormat or a decorative rock.

Why Choose a Keysafe?

There are countless scenarios where a keysafe can transform your home security and peace of mind:

Elderly or Vulnerable Relatives: Caregivers, family members, or emergency services can gain access quickly without a spare key exchange.
Airbnb Hosts & Holiday Rentals: Streamline check-ins and check-outs effortlessly and securely.
Tradespeople & Cleaners: Grant temporary access to trusted professionals when you are not at home.
Children & Emergencies: Ensure your children can get into the house after school, or provide a secure backup key for unforeseen emergencies.

The Cusworth Master Locksmiths Difference

We don't just sell you a box; we provide a complete security solution. Our team of certified, DBS-checked locksmiths ensures that every keysafe we install meets rigorous security standards.

Our service in Wilmslow, Macclesfield, and Poynton includes:

Expert Consultation: We help you select the right keysafe model for your specific needs, considering factors like location, security requirements, and frequency of use. We recommend police-preferred models which have been rigorously tested to the highest standards.
Professional, Discreet Installation: Our locksmiths expertly install the keysafe in a discreet, secure location on your property, ensuring it is affixed with tamper-proof fixings for maximum resistance against unauthorized removal.
User Training: We walk you through how to set and change your unique access code, ensuring you are comfortable with the system before we leave.
Guaranteed Quality: As Master Locksmiths, all our work is guaranteed, providing you with long-lasting peace of mind.

Our Service Areas

We are actively serving the local communities of:

Wilmslow: From the bustling town centre to the quiet residential streets.
Macclesfield: Ensuring homes across the historic market town are secure.
Poynton: Providing modern security solutions to this thriving village community.

"A simple keysafe is one of the most effective and affordable ways to upgrade your home's accessibility without sacrificing security," says Danny Cusworth, Owner of Cusworth Master Locksmiths. "We're proud to bring this essential service to our neighbours in Wilmslow, Macclesfield, and Poynton, installed with the professional care and expertise our customers expect."

Ready to Upgrade Your Home's Security?

Don't leave a spare key under the doormat any longer. Contact Cusworth Master Locksmiths today to schedule your consultation and professional keysafe installation.

Call us on 07792517113 or visit our website at https://cusworth.net/ to learn more about how we can help keep your home and family safe.

About Cusworth Master Locksmiths:
Based in the heart of Cheshire, Cusworth Master Locksmiths is a family-run business with decades of experience in the security industry. We are a fully accredited, independent locksmith service dedicated to providing fast, reliable, and professional security solutions for residential and commercial clients. We are proud to be a trusted local name in locksmith services since 2007

2025-11-04T08:58:00.000-08:00

A Secure Home in Stockport

The Essential Guide to Anti-Snap Multipoint Lock Upgrades

For many Stockport residents, uPVC or composite doors with modern multipoint locking systems offer a reassuring sense of security. These systems bolt the door into the frame at multiple points, making them very difficult to force open. However, this robust defence is only as strong as its weakest point: the cylinder lock that controls the mechanism.

Burglars have identified and widely exploited a vulnerability known as "lock snapping," a quick and simple forced entry technique that requires minimal skill or specialist tools. This method is a significant concern across Greater Manchester, with the police actively advising residents on how to protect their homes.

The solution is a straightforward, affordable, and highly effective upgrade: installing anti-snap lock cylinders that are specifically designed to defeat this attack method.

The Lock Snapping Threat

A standard Euro cylinder lock, commonly found in uPVC and composite doors installed over the last 15 years, has a weak point at the fixing screw hole. If the cylinder protrudes by more than 3mm from the handle, a burglar can get a grip with basic tools, apply force, and snap the lock in two. Once the outer part is removed, the internal mechanism is exposed and can be easily manipulated to open all the door's locking points. The entire process can take seconds, often silently.

How Anti-Snap Locks Provide Real Security

Anti-snap locks, also known as snap-safe or high-security cylinders (like the Ultion brand widely used in Stockport), employ clever engineering to thwart this technique.

Their primary defence is a sacrificial snap line or section at the external end of the cylinder. When force is applied, the lock is designed to snap only at this specific, predetermined point. Crucially, the remaining core mechanism stays intact and secure within the door, preventing the intruder from accessing or manipulating the internal workings of the multipoint lock. The burglar is left with little option but to abandon their attempt.

Beyond this, high-quality anti-snap locks incorporate additional layers of defence:

Reinforced core: Often made from hardened materials like molybdenum, providing extreme durability.
Anti-drill pins and plates: Hardened steel inserts resist drilling attempts.
Anti-pick and anti-bump pins: Complex internal pin configurations make the lock extremely difficult for an intruder to pick or "bump" open.
"LockDown Mode": Some advanced locks, such as the Ultion, feature a hidden firing pin that activates an internal lock when an attack is detected, securing the central cam and stopping entry entirely.

The Gold Standard: TS007 and SS312 Ratings

When choosing an anti-snap lock, look for third-party accreditations, which provide peace of mind and are often recognised by home insurance providers. The two main standards in the UK are:

TS007 3-Star Rating: A cylinder with this rating offers the highest level of security as a standalone product, having been rigorously tested against all known attack methods.
Sold Secure SS312 Diamond Standard: Developed specifically to counter lock snapping, this is a highly regarded test standard set by the Master Locksmiths Association.

Both standards are recommended by the police as effective security upgrades.

A Simple, Professional Upgrade

Upgrading to anti-snap locks is a cost-effective and swift process. A qualified, reputable locksmith can typically inspect your current locks, recommend suitable high-security replacements, and install them within minutes.

Professional installation is crucial; even the best lock can be vulnerable if fitted incorrectly, such as protruding too far from the door handle.

By investing in an anti-snap cylinder upgrade, Stockport homeowners can significantly enhance their property's security, provide a strong deterrent to opportunistic burglars, and gain valuable peace of mind that their home and family are better protected.

Cusworth Master Locksmiths have been upgrading and repairing locks in Stockport since 2007

Key Cutting Machines for Sale

2014-04-15T03:42:00.002-07:00

Silca Lancer Plus - Little used good condidtion

Mortice Key Cutting Machine Similar to a MKI Lancer

Old Mancuna Mortice Key Cutting Machine

Keyline "easy" cylinder key cutting Machine

similar to this

Security Cylinder System Evva EPS xp

2014-02-27T06:59:00.001-08:00

Evva EPS Patented Modular Cylinder system

If your home or business in Wilmslow, Macclesfield or Alderley Edge needs a high security locking system, then contact Cusworth Master Locksmiths on 01625 250275

Macclesfield Locksmiths
Cusworth Locksmiths Bollington Prestbury and Poynton
Master Locksmith Macclesfield

Evva EPS Manages to encompass a wide variety of solutions to today's requirements both at home or work:

Snap resistant cylinder
Bump resistant cylinder
Pick resistant cylinder
Modular system tailored to suit local requirements
Anti ligature options
Classroom option (stops thumb-turn locking - only allowing unlocking inside room)
Many locks on one key: Front door, garage, patio, gate padlock, etc.
Master keying
Patented key section stops unauthorised key duplication

how it works... a cylinder lock

2013-12-18T02:41:00.000-08:00

Post by Cusworth Master Locksmiths Ltd.

Finding a locksmith in Stockport

2013-11-24T09:40:00.001-08:00

Now there are over 2,000 locksmiths currently trading in the UK how do you know which locksmith in Stockport to choose?

Firstly, check out whether a locksmith is licensed by the Master Locksmiths' Association (MLA). This body is recognised as the authoritative body for locksmithing by the Home Office, setting and promoting standards of conduct, practice and materials within the trade.

Gaining a licence from the MLA is very difficult, prospective locksmith companies undergo comprehensive inspection procedures. Look out for the logo indicating that the company advertising it is approved by the MLA, which features two crossed keys on a yellow background and bears the name of the MLA

Locksmiths are often based in a shop, but many are mobile, working out of a vehicle, with a workshop. Many are employed by large locksmithing companies, while others are "one man bands".

Stockport Locksmiths will cover a whole range of services:

General domestic locksmith, such as wooden door and window locks & keys

UPVC door and window locks and locking mechanisms

Access control, such as maglocks, code locks and proximity systems

Commercial locksmith, such as shutter locks, master key systems, door closers, padlocks etc.

Safes supplied, repair and service

Auto locksmith

As described above, the services offered by different companies can vary. Many locksmiths specialise in one aspect of the trade. Check your locksmith is knowledgable in the areas you require, you might be able to find a locksmith who is an expert in that field, and locksmiths are frequently certified in specific skill areas or to a certain level of skill within the trade. Always consider a locksmith's level of skills and whether or not he or she has the expertise to do the best possible job.

Look at the reviews of the locksmith company online, some are obviously not genuine! Yell and Thomson seen to be worse for this, with very similar reviews posted by allegedly different customers.

Always check your locksmith's credentials. In the UK check to make sure the company is Licensed by the Master Locksmiths Association

A history lesson from Yale Locks

2013-11-19T03:17:00.000-08:00

http://www.yale.co.uk/en/yale/couk/About-us/History-of-Yale/pin-tumbler-invention/

The Yale Pin-Tumbler Lock Invention

Yale's best-known lock design is the cylinder Pin-Tumbler Lock.

What is a Pin-Tumbler Lock?

The Pin-Tumbler Lock is a lock mechanism that uses pins of varying lengths to prevent the lock from opening without the correct key.

The invention has new become widespread around the World and is, by far, the most used security locking mechanism in use today. In Stockport common derivatives are the rim "nightlatch" aka Yale lock and the recently popular "euro profile" cylinder used in uPVC and composite doors used across the Stockport area. This type of lock is simple to use and is very reliable. If your pin tumbler lock is worn, or, you have lost your keys contact your local Master Locksmith in Stockport of advice and service - 0161 669 4597

Key cutting in Wilmslow

2013-11-01T10:12:00.000-07:00

Finding someone who can cut keys in Wilmslow can be quite difficult, with the usual Cobblers or heel bars cutting expensive and, in many cases, badly fitting keys. These can sometimes accelerate wear & tear on your locks ultimately requiring a lock change.

At Cusworth's, we make sure all our machinery is calibrated correctly, and we had finish each mortice key (such as Chubb or Union mortice locks), by hand ensuring the key works with the lock - not wearing it out prematurely.

Properly trained staff ensure the correct key blanks are selected, using "universal" type keyblanks are used only when absolutely necessary.

Master Locksmiths Association key cutting information

Wilmslow Locksmith Company Boss Convicted

2013-10-22T10:06:00.002-07:00

Security Solutions Wilmslow Locksmith

Stiffer sentencing for Rogue Traders

2013-10-22T09:55:00.001-07:00

Proposals on tougher sentencing for rogue traders who defraud and bribe the public have been welcomed by TrustMark, the Government endorsed quality mark for reputable tradesmen.

Responding to the Sentencing Council’s consultation on fraud, bribery and money laundering, TrustMark has endorsed a revised framework for sentencing that will affect rogue traders who operate on the black market and win business by fraudulently using registration marks.

“The Sentencing Council’s new proposals will hopefully act as a deterrent to those cowboys who give tens of thousands of great law-abiding tradesmen a bad name,” explains Liz Male, chair of TrustMark. “These criminals put their victims at risk and rip them off. The new guidelines are tougher on those who commit multiple offences, especially when the victims are particularly vulnerable.”

TrustMark is also calling on the Sentencing Council to consider even tougher penalties if rogue traders are fraudulently winning work involving electricity, gas and other potentially lethal substances such as asbestos.

“Tougher, simpler, sentencing guidelines will help us get the message across to rogues that their activities are unacceptable and have no place in our industry,” states Liz. “Ripping off the vulnerable and putting safety at risk must be deterred and we believe the Sentencing Council’s guidelines go some way to help doing that.”

To co-incide with the consultation, TrustMark has introduced a new logo download system this month for all its 14,500 registered firms in order to reduce the risk of logo abuse and fraudulent misrepresentation. Every firm will now be required to use their personlised TrustMark logo in all of their marketing and website activity, detailing the trades that they have been inspected and licensed for by TrustMark.

“The new TrustMark logo will provide a more transparent environment of trust for consumers as they will now be able to immediately see if a TrustMark firm has been inspected and is licensed for a particular trade. And tradesmen will be able to give themselves a competitive edge by demonstrating to customers that their work has been inspected and they offer warranties.” added Liz.
TrustMark has taken action against almost 100 firms so far this year which have been found misusing its logo, and regularly liaises with Trading Standards and the Police when rogue traders come to light. Following successful legal action against such firms and in order to warn other homeowners the business names are published on TrustMark’s ‘Fakes and Forgeries’ page in it’s Essential advice section.

For further information and to stay up-to-date with developments at TrustMark, visit www.trustmark.org.uk

Evva EPS

2013-10-01T12:11:00.000-07:00

Cusworth Master Locksmiths now offer Evva's new EPS locking system

Panic bar fitted wrong!

2013-09-25T02:38:00.000-07:00

How a idiot fits a fire exit panic bar!

Overheating & Apollo Tank

2013-09-10T10:35:00.001-07:00

Apollo tank

Level when hot - around 90

a few mins after switch off


Rover expansion bottle

Sequential Shift Lights

2013-07-25T04:55:00.000-07:00

I have just fitted programmable shift lights from a local company called Digital Race Electronics (DRE)

Fitting was easy, Just a 12v + & - and a tach signal. Very simple, yet feature packed product!

Master Locksmiths Association find a locksmith

2013-06-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

http://www.locksmiths.co.uk/locksmith/cusworth-master-locksmiths/

Finding a locksmith in Wilmslow Macclesfield can be very difficult!

MG Midget front wheel bearings

2013-06-02T03:43:00.000-07:00

I have found some NOS new old stock bearings for the front of the midget. there is a lot of talk about the inner bearing fit on the stub axle especially the inner radius. Here's what I have found:


Lockheed Delphi WBK105 single kit


QH QWB105C BK5 double kit

Outer Bearing - RHP 11/MJT17


This is the most critical, due to the inner radius - RHP 39/LJT25

High Security Extenal Keysafe - Supra C500

2013-05-03T08:52:00.001-07:00

Supra's Impressive C500Has been designed following extensive consultation with users. The security of the C500 is the highest level ever awarded to a key safe in the UK, achieving LPS1175 level 1 accreditation, equal to a front door of the same standard. As a result of this security rating, the product has achieved Police approval through the Secured by Design initiative.

CONSTRUCTION

The C500 KeySafe™ is made of heavy gauge stainless steel and a thick zinc-alloy shell. It has a double wall construction. A stainless plate around the buttons adds additional security and is scratch and fingerprint resistant. The heavy duty locking mechanism uses a long-travel bolt, making it extremely pry-resistant. A clutch mechanism prevents the handle from being forced open. If the C500 is locked and the handle is turned with force, the handle slips and turns easily without opening. Just turn the handle back to the closed position until it clicks to re-latch the handle.

INSTALLATION
Four heavy-duty masonry screws and a template are included for mounting. For further information about installing the C500 Keysafe™

APPROVALS
This C500 KeySafe™ has been tested against physical attack and as a result has received LPS1175 Level 1 certification. To maintain the security certification, the C500 KeySafe™ needs to be mounted on a brick wall with the included masonry screws.

APPLICATIONS
Business applications: home healthcare access and home services, commercial office buildings, remote sites, storage areas, property management, equipment storage, after hours delivery, and alarm or emergency access.
Residential applications: children get home, unattended servicing, spare keys, secure storage for hidden keys, emergency entry and vacation homes.

STANDARD FEATURES

Solid metal construction

Easy push button access

4096 possible combination codes

Store 5+ keys

Weather cover included

Mounting hardware included

SPECIFICATIONS

Dimensions, exterior (HxWxD):	5 7/8" x 3 1/8" x 2 1/2"
Dimensions, interior (HxWxD):	3 1/8" x 2" x 7/8"
Weight:	1800grms
Salt fog:	ASTM B117-02; 96 hrs
Freezing rain build-up:	MIL-STD-810F, Method 521.2; -25° C, 6.35 mm
Resistance against chemicals/cleaners:	Standard household chemicals
UV exposure:	ASTM G115, Cycle 1; 1000 hrs w/o spray
Dust bombardment:	SAE J1211-78,4.5;24 hrs
Operations:	7500 openings / closings, 23° C
Possible Combinations:	4096
Certifications:	Security Loss Prevention Standard (LPS) 1175, level 1

Car and boat electrical parts

2013-04-30T07:42:00.000-07:00

I'm tidying up some of the electrics on my Boat Aquaholic II.

It does not have a Battery isolator fitted. So I had a look and decided to fit a isolator which I had from My Midget race car. I have a borrowed a large cable ratchet crimper from a pal.

It is Always best to use tinned copper cable for harsh environments, such as marine use. I got the cable and lug terminals from PoleVolt Ltd who are Suppliers of Auto Electrical Parts for Trade and DIY

I'd used them a year ago when wiring my K series Midget and was very pleased with their service and prices

Wilmslow Burglaries

2013-04-15T01:55:00.001-07:00

Following a Large increase in Burglaries, Police are advising residents to be extra vigilant in the Wilmslow, Handforth and Alderley edge Areas.

Over the last few weeks there has been a massive increase in burglaries, with many houses being 'fished' whereby the keys to the house and car are being accessed by a long pole (also known as the 'hook and cane' approach), to reach people's keys through their letter plate. Other methods employed are less subtle, with forced entry through doors and windows to the rear of the house. In the majority of cases, thieves are targeting car keys so that they can steal cars from the driveway.

A police spokesperson said "Could I please remind you to close and lock all windows and doors when leaving your property and also leave lights and alarms on so that it looks as if someone is at home. Even if you are in the house please keep rear doors locked. Hide all car keys, never leave them on display on windowsills and hall tables. Put cars in the garage if possible."

I would add when securing your home at night, please make sure after checking and deadlocking your doors and windows to keep your keys(including any car keys) away form view from windows or letterboxes. Additionally, Please make sure the keys are in a safe place - where they can be found if you need them to escape in an emergency, such as a fire. it is advised to leave them at the top of he stairs where all occupants know where to find them if a situation arises. Also if the worst happens, an intruder will find them without disturbing your family.

Don't Automatically think its only large, New, German cars. I know of a smart 8 year old Mini Cooper S being targeted.

According to Wilmslow.co.uk -"During March house burglaries have occurred in the following areas : Knutsford Road, Bulkeley Road Handforth, Broadway, Fulshaw Park South, Swinley Chase, Westminster Drive, Alveston Drive, Albany Road and Stanneylands Road. There were attempted burglaries on Alderley Road, Thorngrove Road and Oak Lane. In addition, vehicles were stolen from the following areas: Grangeway Road, Delamere Road, Derwent Drive Handforth, Dean Drive, Hampton Court, Marina Close Handforth, Wilmslow Road Handforth and Kilncroft Lane Handforth. A motorcycle was also taken from the Knowle Park area of Handforth. Please contact the police on 101 if you notice anybody acting suspiciously in your area and take down any registration numbers belonging to suspicious vehicles."

The Opposite Locksmith: directory

2013-03-29T09:39:00.001-07:00

The Opposite Locksmith: directory