BLACKSMITHS from all over the country will be at the National Trust's Finch Foundry on Saturday November 21 to practice their art and celebrate their patron saint, Saint Clement, in the traditional manner.

This includes the spectacular 'firing of the anvil' with gunpowder. On this special day entry to the foundry and Christmas shop will be free.

The day is a rare opportunity to see some of the country's top craftsmen in competition. They will be producing test pieces to be judged at the end of the day.

Some will be demonstrating the unique water-powered trip hammers in the Foundry, to help recreate the atmosphere of a Victorian working forge.

The day starts at 10.30am and continues until 4.30pm, to include entertainment from West Devon Morris dancers.

Saint Clement was celebrated as far back as the medieval period. Members of the Worshipful Company and Guild of Blacksmiths traditionally paraded through the streets.

Roger Boney, Custodian at Finch Foundry, said: 'St Clement's Day is the main highlight in our calendar at Finch Foundry.

'It's a fantastic opportunity to see blacksmiths demonstrating their craft in an historic setting.'