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Forged in fire

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Weaving a spell

Weaving a spell

The ringing tone of hammer on anvil is one that resonates deep within the soul, as blacksmithing is an ancient craft that would once have been at the heart of every community. We visit Kingdom Forge to meet Paul Stoddart and find out why he is making sparks fly.

Paul set up Kingdom Forge in 2015 after graduating from the National School of Blacksmithing in Herefordshire. Only eighteen, he was already fired up about putting his stamp on this traditional craft, and passionate about making blacksmithing relevant to his generation, encouraging others to experiment with working with fire. From the outset, Paul worked hard to ensure that Kingdom Forge gained a reputation for quality metalwork, and he was soon taking bespoke commissions for a range of projects including iron gates, arches, kitchen tables, staircases, and even intricate garden sculptures. Within two years, he had the opportunity to expand the workshop, and his forge, which is based on a farm in Brundish, is now the largest industrial forge in East Anglia.

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Never one to stand still, in 2020 Paul decided to open a brewery next to the forge, and together with friend Peter Runnacres, produces a range of ciders under the brand, Suffolk Village Ciders. “There has always been a long association with blacksmithing and cider, so I liked the idea of bringing that connection back to life. The apples come from the orchard behind the workshop and we now stock a few of the local pubs, such as Sibton White Horse, The Station, and Sweffling White Horse. I also built a bar and Kingdom Forge is the only licenced forge in the UK.” Paul hosts regular events, firing up the forge for demonstrations, booking live bands and getting Avi from ‘Bagel or Beigel’ to run the street food.

By inviting people to visit the forge, Paul soon realised that there was a genuine interest and curiosity for blacksmithing, so he decided to set up his own Introduction to Blacksmithing courses. It was an immediate success and he now teaches upwards of 450 students a year and offers Axe Making and Couples Rose Making workshops as well. “We get such a varied cross-section of people at these workshops and it is so rewarding to see them all connect with the fire and understand how to use the heat to work the iron. Some of my students have been inspired by their time here and over the years about a dozen has gone on to be accepted at the National School of Blacksmithing, which is just fantastic.”

Paul’s enthusiasm for blacksmithing is infectious, and the fact that he looks like a modern-day Viking – all muscle, beard, and Celtic red hair – helps too! He is genuinely passionate about engaging with others and the forge has become a haven for traditional craftsmen looking for advice or time working with the flame. These include Leszek Sikon, a qualified bladesmith who helps with some of the workshops; Toby and Nathan, both local knifemakers; and Josh and Edward, young apprentices drawn to the forge to explore their creativity and learn new skills. “My door is always open. I was so grateful for the help I received from Richard Ames, who owns the building we rent, and want to make sure Kingdom Forge is a place where people can drop by for advice or camaraderie.”

It is this openness that led to Paul being officially employed by the Royal Opera House (ROH) as one of their armourers. “The Head of Special Effects for Paramount came on one of my courses and he asked if I would be interested in helping forge some props needed for a film. Of course, I said yes, and we transported one of the forges to London so that I could work on set. It was a great experience – it’s not every day you practise a sword fight with Mark Whalberg! Since then, I have worked on many other productions and last year, the ROH asked me to work in the armoury department to ensure the authenticity of the swords and other weaponry they use on stage.” Paul is also a member of the Worshipful Company of Cutlers, one of the most ancient of the City of London livery companies, and was awarded the Freedom of the City of London for his service to teaching.

Paul is inspired by the work and accomplishments of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, admiring his ‘can do’ attitude and innovative thinking. Worthy footsteps in which to follow, but it is clear that Paul is forging his own path, inspiring others and leading the way to help rekindle this most ancient of traditional trades.

For more details of the courses visit the website www.kingdomforge.co.uk

As the garden starts to stir after its winter’s sleep, so too does your lawn and so this is the time to get back to grass roots and sort out any problems.

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