It's not just the weather that can be hazardous!

Surrey based Gillett & Johnston has been supplying and installing clocks, bells and weathervanes since 1844 and are one of a few specialist companies capable of carrying out restoration of this type of equipment. 

Recently they were contacted by St John's Church in Bethnal Green because the weathervane was in danger of becoming a safety hazard.

What was the problem?

Age, pollution and World War II bombs had taken their toll so a major conservation programme was undertaken to ensure the church’s survival, the weathervane being a part of this. 

What did we do?

We removed the central support and vane and lowered all for transportation to our works.

Once there, we checked and where necessary replaced the main structural components and collars that were corroded using stainless steel. 

We then thoroughly cleaned and prepared all the exposed surfaces with etch primer, followed by undercoat and finished all in high grade gloss enamel.

Once returned to site and installed we gilded the vane pointer and tail together with the cardinal points using 24 carat extra thick English gold leaf.

The Results 

The weathervane is now structurally sound and is not a danger to the public.

By replacing damaged parts with stainless steel the weathervane will now be free from corrosion in the years ahead.

The vane is now restored to its former glory and stands as a landmark in Bethnal Green

For more information visit their website www.gillettjohnston.co.uk