A HISTORIC Victorian fountain in Worcester’s Cripplegate park is working again after the completion of major refirbishment.
The Grade two listed cast iron fountain has been refurbished and fixed for the summer and has been at the park since 1924.
The fountain was presented to the city in 1858 by former MP Richard Padmore and was made at the Blockhouse foundry by his company Hardy and Padmore.
Last year Worcester City Council agreed a refurbishment programme for the fountain costing £25,000.
The work included cleaning, refurbishment and decoration of the fountain and the lower lion spots.
Speaking about the refurbishment, Worcester City Councillor for the St John’s ward Richard Udal said: “The fountain was originally placed in the old Worcester Market Hall, but it has been in Cripplegate Park for 100 years.
“Sadly it was beginning to show its age, so the refurbishment was well earned and necessary.
“I hope it will continue to bring pleasure and enjoyment for many more years to come and will be at the centre of the park for all to enjoy.”
St John’s ward Coun Jenny Barnes added: “Our park is loved by the community and refurbishing the fountain shows pride in our green space.
“The Friends of Cripplegate Park run a range of events in the park, and charity events are held there too, such as the recent Band Together fundraising music festival.”
Contractors Barr & Grosvenor Ltd decorated the main fountain and Steve Allard and Son repaired the stone base.
The project was managed by consultants PR Associates Ltd.
