AN ALLERFORD blacksmiths has produced a spectacular memorial bench to celebrate the 800th anniversary of mayors in Bristol.

The bench has been installed within the gardens of the Bristol Mansion House in Clifton which is the official residence of the Lord Mayor of Bristol.

The bench was designed, made and installed by West Country Blacksmiths of Allerford Forge.

The metalwork was made from steel and stainless steel and is finish with a powder coated 23.5 carat gold gilded finish.

It was unveiled at a special event as part of the Bristol 800 celebration and was unveiled by The Right Honourable Lord Mayor of Bristol, Cllr Jeff Lovell, and Richard Bonner the master of guild of guardians.

Kieran Roberts from West Country Blacksmiths said: "We feel privileged to have been involved in this project and we thank everyone for the overwhelming positive feedback we have received.

"We are backed by a highly skilled team of metalworkers who have many specialists skills which allow us to undertake the wide variety of work we do such as gates, handrails and railings whilst also undertaking unique bespoke metalwork project such as this.

Richard Bonner of the guild of guardians added: "We thank West Country Blacksmiths for the incredible service we received.

"A delightful team to work with who are very creative and have produce the metalwork which is far superior to what we had expected. They are truly professional craftsman who have been a pleasure to work."

Lord Mayor of Bristol Cllr Lovell said: "The metalwork is truly beautiful piece which is a grand addition to the Mansion House which looks as if it will be here for another 800 years."