[L]OCAL lead enthusiasts were given the chance to improve their skills at a series of master classes.
The lead-working courses were open to professionals, homeowners and anyone else interested in the trade.
The courses were attended by 17 people who were introduced to various techniques which were explored through talks, demonstrations and workshops.
The participants were introduced to different types of lead, codes and their uses, technical considerations, typical defects and issues, practical dressing, bossing and welding. The group also discussed a variety of formed pieces such as hopper heads, vents, back gutters and sumps.
Nina Wilson, who attended the course, said: “I have learnt a lot from this course and the other courses put on by the Whitehaven Townscape Heritage Initiative which I have attended.
“They have been informative, enjoyable and an immense help in restoring elements of my own home.”
Les Finley, Building Control Surveyor at Copeland Borough Council, said: “I went on the course initially because I have a strong interest in restoration works.
“The area I inspect in my role often sees a lot of very old properties undergoing restoration works and my improved knowledge of lead-working techniques and products on the market will support me in my role.”
Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland, said: “We have a wealth of properties in our conservation areas that require specialist restoration works and it’s fantastic to see so many of our local tradespeople and residents taking the time to improve their knowledge in this area.
“Courses like this help to ensure that the integrity of our historic properties remain and that we are conserving period features.
“It is vital that we take pride in our buildings and continually conserve and improve both the structure and appearance of properties in our towns and villages, which will be enjoyed by generations to come.”
The events led by Brendan Teesdale were held at Muncaster Castle and were funded by the Whitehaven Townscape Heritage Initiative.
The Townscape Heritage Initiative is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (£660,000); Britain’s Energy Coast (a legacy project using funding from the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority) (£395,000) Copeland Borough Council (£250,000) and the Copeland Area Committee of Cumbria County Council (£50,000).
