Blacksmiths to mark saint's day

Visitors will be able to observe the traditional anvil firing

Blacksmiths from all over the country will be descending on Devon to mark Saint Clement's Day on Saturday.

They will be attending an annual event at the Finch Foundry at Sticklepath to celebrate the special day of the patron saint of blacksmiths.

The National Trust's Finch Foundry is the last remaining authentic water powered forge in the country.

The foundry dates back to the early 19th Century and was originally used to make sickles, scythes and shovels.

Compare notes

It fell into disrepair in the 1960s before being restored by the trust 10 years ago.

Every year blacksmiths from all over the country meet at the foundry to mark Saint Clement's Day.

For the blacksmiths it is a chance to compare notes but it is also proving increasingly popular with the public.

Visitors will be able to observe the traditional anvil firing and see the three water wheels which power the foundry.