The church of St Michael in the Hamlet, affectionately known as south Liverpool’s “pink” church, is one of only two surviving examples of early prefabricated church buildings. Built in the opening decades of the 19th century – the very early days of cast iron technological advances – it was the realisation of collaboration between Iron Master John Cragg and Gothic revivalist architect Thomas Rickman.

In 2002, restoration funds were secured from the Heritage Lottery Scheme through English Heritage, who worked with architects Pickard Finlason Partnership under the Repair Grants for Places of Worship Scheme.

Hargreaves Foundry was awarded the contract to repair and replace the historic cast iron windows at the landmark Grade 1 listed parish church.

Most of the windows were salvaged and sandblasted in-situ back to bare metal by the main contractor, Mather and Ellis. These were then treated, primed and repainted.

Although the main cast iron frames were in reasonable condition, seven of the separate lancet panels set within the main frames were judged beyond repair and were replaced by Hargreaves, who created new patterns from an original lancet removed by the contractor.

The processes and precision required in cast-iron production and patternmaking have changed very little over the last century and to replicate windows as derelict as these requires the skill and ingenuity of both master craftsmanship and master detective.

Since the window panels were profiled on both sides, separate patterns were made of each side to form the mould. It became evident that some of the panels were originally designed as hinged opening lights.

The completed windows were subsequently refitted to the frame with stainless steel fixings.

Cast Iron is Perfect Partner

The perfect choice for old and new buildings, cast iron meets the needs of restoration, refurbishment, conservation and heritage work as well as projects promoting new, bespoke and unique designs.

Strong and durable, cast iron is 100 per cent recyclable, offers fire resistance, won’t crack when being installed, needs little maintenance and is vandal resistant.

Hargreaves Foundry has been in the cast iron business for more than 100 years.  Hargreaves pattern shop specialises in new and bespoke designs as well as the conservation and replacement of original pieces.

For more information ring 01422 330607, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www.hargreavesfoundry.co.uk