A Manchester-based firm is supporting a local artist to help protect the legacy of his unique sculptures.

Heywood-based Manchester Galvanizing Ltd has been called upon to future-proof the latest venture of local customer, Paul. Having retired from the metal finishing industry, he has over 50 years’ experience and knowledge of working with steel, and is now seeking new and exciting challenges.

Paul said: “I love making things. Over the years, I’ve designed and fabricated many items, including gates, models, garden furniture, and road legal trikes – one of which I built in 1997, I still have and use.

“I turn 70 this year and still like to keep active. A friend of mine, Richard Armstrong, Owner of Armstrong Fabrications in Oldham, recently asked me to create a metal stag, and I jumped at the opportunity. I loved it – it reignited the creative spark in me once again, and I’ve since created a number of other items.”

Paul’s most recent project is a life-sized eagle garden feature, with a wingspan of approximately six feet. This is currently the third of its kind he’s fabricated, which is to be gifted to a local care home for the residents to enjoy.

“Over the course of 35 hours, I fabricated the bird using 5mm, 12mm and 16mm wire (plus whatever weird and wonderful materials I could find in the workshop),” Paul added.

“Having worked in the metal finishing trade – mainly powder coating and painting – before I retired, I’ve known of Manchester Galvanizing for a number of years. With their fantastic reputation, known locally to be very efficient and to produce an excellent quality of workmanship, I asked for their assistance to galvanize this piece to prevent it from rusting in its outside location.”

Mark Waters, Commercial Manager at Manchester Galvanizing, concluded: “We’ve been privileged to play a part in supporting Paul’s passion for art and creativity – no project is too big or too small at Wedge! And what a fantastic sentiment that this eagle sculpture will be donated to a local care home, and thanks to the galvanized finish, it will be weather-proof, ensuring it remains in top quality condition for many years to come.”

Manchester Galvanizing is part of Wedge Group Galvanizing Ltd, the largest hot-dip galvanizing organisation in the UK with a history dating back over 150 years. With 14 plants strategically placed across the country, the firm offers a truly national galvanizing service.

For further information please contact Wedge Group Galvanizing on 01902 601944 or visit www.wedge-galv.co.uk.