A WELL-known Tavistock blacksmith, who built many of the town's gates and fire escapes, has died at the age of 79. Fred Neve died on Friday, March 7 at his home in Westmoor Park, Tavistock — his funeral was held last Friday. Fred was the son of a blacksmith, Patrick Neve, and served his apprenticeship with Messrs Stevens in Ivybridge alongside his father. He moved to Tavistock at the age of 19 to work for Farm Industries Ltd, based on the site of the old Iron Foundry and Woollen Mill in Parkwood Road. It was through his work that the long tradition of foundry and smith work continued on this site, nearly into the 21st century. Fred and his wife Sheila for many years lived next to the site in the house now named 'Ferrum House'and were well-known residents in the Parkwood Road area. Fred worked in agricultural and town engineering for 46 years until his retirement in 1993. Many of his gates, fire escapes and other works can still be seen in the town to this day.