Despite the peristent rain, crowds gathered at Halifax Minster to watch stonemasons compete in the region’s first stonecarving festival on the 24th and 25th July.
Stonemasons from across the UK and further afield came together to compete in a festival, organised by the West Riding Stone Carving Association and sponsored by local building firm Marshalls.
The competitors including experience stonemasons, apprentices and people new to the craft were asked to produce a stone carving from a single sandstone block, donated by Marshalls on the theme of Yorkshire Wildlife.
Refreshments and musical entertainment gave the weekend an upbeat atmosphere in contrast to the gloomy weather which didn’t deter the visitors.
The carvings were auctioned off on the final day of the festival, with funds jointly split between Halifax Minster and the West Riding Stone Carving Association.
Representatives from the West Riding Stonecarving Association talked about the growth in this ancient craft with people from all walks of life having a go at their free introductory sessions. They are hlding an open day at their premises at Shaw Mills, Halifax on Saturday 29th July.
