Wells Cathedral Stonemasons

WELLS CATHEDRAL STONEMASONS RESCUES 15TH CENTURY SOMERSET MANOR HOUSE

Craftsmen at Cheddar-based Wells Cathedral Stonemason have started work on a five-year programme to rescue the nearby 15th Century manor house in Shapwick, near Glastonbury.

Dating from 1489, and built by Glastonbury Abbey, Shapwick House is now used for conferences and weddings.

Wells Cathedral Stonemasons have been commissioned to undertake a full “rescue” programme, from re-pointing and re-glazing this ancient manor-house, to repairing the roof.

According to Peter Arkell, Managing Director of Wells Cathedral Stonemasons: “This is a fascinating challenge. Shapwick House was built and modified over many centuries, using a variety of local Somerset stones: we shall use the same stone for every stage of this repair project.

“While we have teams of masons working in London, Wales, and overseas, it is a treat to have such an interesting commission on our doorstep”, said Mr Arkell.

Shapwick House has a colourful history, having been the home of the Chancellor of the Exchequer in the 1600s

“While there have been several occasions on which other stonemasons have worked on this house over the centuries, the roof timbers date from the 15th Century, and we have a responsibility to deliver a full repair in-line with the original builders. We are determined to meet that responsibility”, said Mr Arkell.

ENDS 9th November 2007

For further information please contact Violet Ridge, Sturgess Van Damme, on 01275 349011 or email violet@sturgessvandamme.co.uk