AN Exmoor-based blacksmiths has completed its part of a nationally-important restoration project in London for Historic England.

West Country Blacksmiths, which has its forge in Allerford, was asked to produce and install four pairs of gates, 650 feet of handrails, and seven electrical cupboard door hatches as part of a £2.8 million reconstruction of the Grade II* Victorian Crystal Palace Subway.

The subway was built in 1865 as a gateway entrance to the high level station and was originally constructed for first class passengers.

The blacksmiths, run by brothers Kieren and Kyle Roberts, spent more than three months travelling to and from London to install the metalwork which was all produced from their quaint National Trust-owned forge.

Some of the handrails made by Exmoor's West Country Blacksmiths for the restoration of the Crystal Palace Subway, in London.
Some of the handrails made by Exmoor's West Country Blacksmiths for the restoration of the Crystal Palace Subway, in London. (West Country Blacksmiths)

Kieren Roberts said: “It was a pleasure to work at this amazing place, a really hidden masterpiece.

“We are really pleased to have played our part in its restoration.

“This project allowed us to show the diverse skills we have within our talented team, including 3D site surveying, CAD designing, forge and fabrication work in both steel and stainless steel, and our onsite capabilities.

“I would like to take the opportunity to thank our dedicated and hardworking team for all their efforts on this project.”

Mr Roberts said the Allerford forge continued to produce works for the local community while the team was also building a growing reputation nationally.

The Crystal Palace commission adds to a portfolio of projects which includes Kensington Palace, Swansea’s Palace Theatre, The Wellcome Trust, Pencarrow House, and many other national landmarks.

Current projects include a staircase for a property on the Isles of Scilly, The Royal History Museum, Mawley Hall, in Shropshire, and three pairs of gates being made for premises in Australia.

Handrails and a gate made by Exmoor's West Country Blacksmiths for the restoration of the Crystal Palace Subway, in London.
Handrails and a gate made by Exmoor's West Country Blacksmiths for the restoration of the Crystal Palace Subway, in London. (West Country Blacksmiths)

Mr Roberts said: “We are proud to have the opportunity to work on some large projects.

“We need this to keep our 10-strong team of local craftsmen busy, but our heart and the majority of our work continues to be for, and always will be, the local community.

“From minor repair and restoration to any metalwork project from handrail to large-scale restoration or architectural projects.”