THERE will be hot competition at Finch Foundry in Sticklepath as blacksmiths from around the country gather to celebrate St Clement's Day this Saturday (November 18). The blacksmiths will be at the foundry 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. St Clement's Day was celebrated as far back as medieval times when members of the Worshipful Company and Guild of Blacksmiths traditionally paraded through the streets. The tradition died out in the 1940s, until just over a decade ago when the enthusiasm of local West Country blacksmiths brought it back to life. The day is a rare opportunity to gain an insight into this highly skilled craft and to see some of the country's top craftsmen in competition. They will be producing test pieces that are judged at the end of the day. The day begins at 10.30am with the Forge breakfast and continues until 4.30pm, work being interspersed with anvil firing and entertainment from local Morris dancers. Entry to the foundry is free for St Clement's Day.