County Staff To Have A Hand In Track Glory
A metalworks firm has created more than 50 handbells for officials at the 2012 London Olympics after getting an order ‘out of the blue’ from the games organisers.
Black Country Metal Works, based in Aston, near Oswestry, has received an order for bells which will be used to signify the start of the last lap in the track and equestrian events.
The bells have been made out of molten brass which is poured into moulds and placed in a lathe to give them a distinctive shape and tone.
The handles have been made out of hardwood, which has been waxed and sealed.
Clive Knowles, managing director said: “We were fortunate to have a phone call asking for price quotes for hand bell. The call came out of the blue. This is the first time we have done anything like this. It is pretty exciting, it was quite a surprise really.
“It wasn’t a commercial decision to do this, we wanted to do it. It wasn’t about making money, it is about being part of the Olympics. It is marvellous. We are delighted to be involved.
Mr Knowles said each hand bell had been tested and passed for tone and resonance. The company has been going for 25 years and moved to Oswestry 3 years ago.
