The need to dismantle the massive stonework to the west front garden stair required the removal of the iron rail. Dated about 1690, parts of the ironwork may be by John Tijou the 'father of English ironwork'. The railing with its cast iron cap rail was in need of overhaul. Chris Topp and Co. were not the first to work on these railings. Using the cleaning technique of chemical dipping, numerous previous repairs were revealed by differences in the surface colour of the iron; in fact the pilasters were proved, by certain polished surfaces, to have been intended for indoor application. A little research in the records of the house indeed proved that they had previously been installed in the house.

Techniques of renovation were where possible contemporary with manufacture, puddled iron being used for replacements throughout. A full photographic record was kept of original condition and progress of repairs.

The work was done in several phases as work on the stone work progressed.

Subcontractors: Yesterdays Furniture