The ornate iron fountain in the market square is flowing again for the first time in a generation, thanks to a small group of residents who refused to let it rust into the paving.
The fountain had stood dry since the 1990s, its basin used as an oversized planter and, more often, an ashtray. Over eighteen months the restoration group raised money through raffles, a sponsored valley walk and a stall at the Christmas market.
How it came back
The work was trickier than anyone expected. The original supply pipe had been capped underground, and the cast ironwork needed careful stripping before it could be repainted in its proper deep green.
- New water supply connected and pressure tested
- Basin relined to stop leaks into the square below
- Ironwork repainted to match the original colour
- A small plaque added recording the town’s mill history
The group says its next target is the neglected horse trough near the old station yard. Donations, and volunteers handy with a wire brush, are welcome.
Related: More community news · Autumn fair in the square
Further reading: About drinking fountains
