A THIRD generation craftsman has used a chainsaw, chisel and his wood sculpting talent to create a throne seat from the stump of a beech tree blown down in Kendal’s Fletcher Park.

Former Kirkbie Kendal School student Andy Levy, 25, was asked to design and make the sculpture by private tree consultant, Chris Raper.

“I worked with Chris when I was a tree surgeon, so he knew about my wood sculpting, which was then just a hobby,” said Mr Levy.

“As I now have my own sculpting business this project was a perfect way to advertise what I can do, while at the same time adding a nice feature to the park.”

The seat features intricate carvings relating to Kendal history, in particular that of the Parr family, who took residence in Kendal Castle during the 16th century.

“I wanted to make a Parr throne which included references to Catherine and William Parr, and the more I researched into the family the more I became interested,” said Mr Levy.

“It seemed a fitting theme because Fletcher Park lies directly below the castle.”

While seeking inspiration for his design Mr Levy visited Kendal Parish Church and discovered William Parr’s tombstone decorated with his coat of arms.

After also seeing the heads of the King and Queen on the arch of the church’s main entrance, he decided that these too had to be worked into his creation.

Other aspects of the throne include Catherine Parr’s coat of arms, and a sword and bow and arrow, which Mr Levy said represent weaponry of the time.

To find out more about Mr Levy and his work, or to read more about the Parr sculpture, visit www.andylevywoodsculptor.com.