A LEADING artist blacksmith from South Cumbria has unveiled his latest sculpture - a five metre high Spitfire.

The Ulverston-based artist was asked by Denys Shortt OBE, Chief Executive of the DCS Group, to design and build a sculpture for the entrance of the company's new multi-million pound headquarters in Banbury.

In the 1930s the site was home to the Northern Aluminium Company which made the metal for Spitfires. The sculpture is a nod to the important role the factory played during the Second World War.

Named after the nickname given to the factory by its workers, 'The Ally' sculpture was designed by Chris and built in his workshop in Ulverston.

The base of the spitfire is designed to give the effect of flowing ribbons of aluminium which reach upwards gradually metamorphosing into the form of the iconic war plane, built to a scale of around a third.

A compass ring set into the ground around the base represents aviation and navigation with the Spitfire positioned heading North.

"It was a real honour to be asked by Denys to build this sculpture which has been a very personal project for me.," said Chris. "From an initial sketch and idea I've been able to get into the workshop and work with the team to build what is an absolutely fantastic and inspiring sculpture as well as a stunning piece of engineering."

Built from steel and mild steel, hydraulics and heat were used to create the curves of ribbon and every last detail - down to the choice of fixings - were carefully selected for quality and design. The propeller has a mirror polish finish and the rivets being traditionally hand-forged give a nod to the past.

Denys Shortt said, "Personally I've long been an admirer of Chris and his work. My family and I spend a lot of time in the Lake District and I've seen many of Chris' projects.

"I'm thrilled he was able to design and build this sculpture for DCS and our new premises in Banbury. 'The Ally' is a very fitting tribute and tells the story of the sites rich history and heritage. Staff and visitors alike are blown away by the finished sculpture - it's just incredible."

Chris also designed and built a bespoke feature spiral staircase for the premises creating a dramatic grand entrance to the headquarters from which over 300 staff are based.