Latest sculptures unveiled at maze

The blacksmith workshop funded by Craigavon Borough Council’s Arts Development and Parks Departments is based at Tannaghmore Gardens and has produced three sculptures of Master McGrath to be included as part of the maze.

Master McGrath was owned and raced by Lord Lurgan of the Brownlow family, and went on to become the most famous greyhound of all time. Several pubs and restaurants are named after him; his story has been celebrated in a famous ballad, and in several sculptures, including those within the Tannaghmore Gardens maze.

“The sculptures are beautifully crafted and Master McGrath is a fitting model with his links to the area. The local link continues with the sculptures being made at the workshop and being displayed at the popular Tannaghmore Gardens maze. What a great showpiece for the Borough!” remarked Mayor of Craigavon, Councillor Carla Lockhart.

Students Tommy Preston, Chris Shields and Jonny Kerr created the greyhound sculptures with the advice and assistance of the workshop artist/blacksmiths Eamonn Higgins and Steven Murphy.

They began the project in May 2011 and the sculptures were installed in the maze at Tannaghmore Gardens in May 2012 each with a storyboard displaying the history of the famous greyhound.

“We all thoroughly enjoyed being part of the project. We are delighted with the sculptures and seeing them incorporated into the maze at Tannaghmore Gardens is a great credit to the workshop, they are a great addition to the maze,” said Council’s Arts Assistant and workshop student, Jonny Kerr.

Tannaghmore Blacksmith Workshop runs every Saturday at Tannaghmore Farm from 11am to 3.30pm and students can learn traditional blacksmithing techniques as well as modern welding and plasma cutting.

To book a place contact Jonny on 07778 373472.