An update and photographic reportage on our latest work at the awe-inspiring Cathedral in Norwich:
In September, we removed the golden weathercock that sits on top of Norwich Cathedral’s centuries-old spire, to be re-gilded as part of a wider restoration project.
It is thought it is the first time since 1963 that the weathercock has been brought to ground.
Re-gilding the weathercock has been as enjoyable as it was challenging. Wearing its 350 years of age on its sleeve, we needed to apply multiple layers of the micron-thick gold leaf to fill all nooks and crannies. Suffice to say, the result was worth the effort.
Having completed the gilding repairs, we wrapped it in foam and placed it in a custom timber frame ready to haul up the spire. As you can see from the photos sometimes thinking inside the box works best!
We then started our ascent to the top of the spire carefully as to protect the weathercock while abseiling.
Once we were in place at the top, we needed to attach the cockerel to our timber crane and detach it from the haul ropes.
Lots of intricate rigging was required here to ensure the cockerel would not rub against the surfaces and would have free movement through the pulley, whilst still being able to unwrap the padding once in place.
As you can see from the photos, we were very satisfied to successfully complete the task, and we really appreciate the support and the enthusiasm everyone showed us while carrying out this work.
Photo credits:
Chris Skipper / Jason Bye / Bill Smith / Joe Giddens
Find out more about our Norwich Cathedral weathercock gilding works here:
ITV coverage
BBC coverage
