Olly has worked with Ironart since the Spring of 2023. He grew up on his family’s farm in Colerne, near Bath. After leaving Beechen Cliff School Olly attended a one-day blacksmithing course with Ian Thackray, exploring working on the forge and was instantly hooked.

A chance conversation with a friend led Olly to the Ironart workshops in Larkhall. He did a two week work experience trial with us and made a really good impression on the team, so we are fast equipping him with hands-on experience and skills. 

In the Summer of 2024 Olly received a grant from The York Consortium for Craft & Conservation to support his training here at Ironart. The YCCC grant is part of a new funding scheme to support craft trainees and apprentices, especially where their craft is endangered and funded training is not available. 

Dr Gill Chitty – Trustee and Bursary Officer for the YCCC said:
“Olly is one of two craft trainee bursaries the Consortium has awarded this year and he is the first trainee blacksmith we have funded. The bursary is for three years to support his continuing apprenticeship with IronArt who are providing his training and a terrific learning experience. We are delighted to be collaborating with them.”