THE Finch Foundry in the village of Sticklepath, near Okehampton, will be hosting an exhibition of rural skills, both new and old, on Sunday, September 18.

There will be a range of craftspeople in the Foundry gardens displaying their skills and selling their products, including sugar crafting, loom weaving, rag rugging, wine production, a wood turner, a wool fleece manufacturer, and a blacksmith.

There will also be a village duck race, continuing a tradition first started in Sticklepath more than 30 years ago.

Ben Shapcott, Foundry Manager, says: “We have held several rural craft fairs in the past and, after a break, we hope the day will give new and returning visitors a glimpse of the creative talents hidden within the Devon countryside and inspire them to take up tools and develop their own skills.

"With so many skilled craftspeople in the area it is certain that they’ll find something of interest.”

The day starts at 11am and continues until 4.30pm, with activities ongoing throughout the day.

Entry to the event will be free for all National Trust members, usual entry prices to Finch Foundry apply to non-members.

The Finch foundry is a traditional 19th Century working forge powered by three water wheels driving a huge tilt hammer and grindstone.  It originally produced sickles, scythes and shovels for Dartmoor farmers and miners.  It produced up to 400 tools a day.