The top half has been filled in with stone and has since been removed. Can't believe anyone would just cover this up! The fire is approx early 18th century and the oak surround is a while later. It turned out that our next door neighbour has one almost identical that was dated by some official body a few years back.
I have already started stripping the surround down to the bare wood and it is looking beautiful The wood is such a rich colour. The plan is to clear the fire out and make it safe. We then need to repair the stone chimney breast and seal it. Once thats done, we can refit the surround. I'm so pleased that we found this and can't wait to see what it looks like when the work is complete!
Meanwhile......Saturday was the Alston Show. We ventured down to the field with the children and had a lovely time. The terrier racing was a delight to see and I have to admit that I didn't realise that there were so many different types of sheep!
