IRON railings removed from near Tavistock?s most prominent town centre buildings more than 50 years ago should be replaced in full splendour, thanks to the generosity of the town?s long-standing benefactor. The ornate 19th century railings used to surround Court Gate Cottage and the subscription library, but were removed during the second world war in the salvage for armaments campaign. The secretary of the subscription library, Graham Kirkpatrick, last week asked the council to support a proposal to replace the railings, which is being backed by the Dowager Duchess of Bedford. In a letter to Mr Kirkpatrick, the Duchess said: ?My late husband really loved Tavistock and felt very strongly that it was important for the family to retain a connection ? in his memory I would very much like to help you replace the railings. ?My request would be that a plaque is placed near them, saying that the railings were remade in memory of Robin, the 14th Duke of Bedford, by his family, for the town that he loved.? The duchess has agreed to bear the cost of the new railings to the tune of £9,500, if the council would pay the VAT. Mr Kirkpatrick told the council the original railings were ?ornate and typical of early 19th century work?. The library committee felt the railings were attractive and an important feature of the historic building during the 1830s, when Court Gate was extensively repaired and refurbished. ?It is a feature that will enhance that part of Guildhall Square and Court Gate now, and when the magistrates? court is given a new function,? said Mr Kirkpatrick. Cllr Iain Andrews, chairman of the council?s properties committee, said: ?I think this is something that is going to really enhance that area. ?I think it is particularly nice that Mr Kirkpatrick contacted the Bedfords and had a response from the dowager.? Cllr Jenny Metcalf, town mayor, said the request was particularly appropriate, given the fact the late Duke of Bedford opened Tavistock?s new library just a few years ago. ?I think it?s very nice she is doing this,? she said. The committee agreed Cllr Betty Batchelor?s proposal the council should back the subscription library?s railings project ? the decision was due to be ratified by full council on Tuesday.
