Floating pipe workshop

Yesterday's story about the towpath smoke off revolved around the arrival in Audlem over the weekend of Ian and Catriona Walker's narrow boat which also happens to be a pipe workshop.

All the pipes used in Sunday's smoke off were made by Ian of Northern Briars. The company was founded in 1958 by his grandfather who had started working for Duncan Briars in 1922 where he later became head foreman in charge of pipe production.

Ian Walker joined the family business in 1972 straight from school. Initially working as an apprentice, like everybody else at the factory, he swept the floors and made the tea. He was later allowed to polish some pipes and then, in his Grandfather's workshop, learned how to make silver bands from sheet silver.

By the 1980s, Ian was doing all the repairs and had become one of the foremost pipe-repairmen in the counry. He then started making pipes himself until, now, his pipes are sought after in Europe, North America and the Far East.

He sources his briar from Italy where, it's generally agreed, the best stock can be found. Each pipe is totally handcrafted by Ian himself and all have hand cut stems using the best grade German vulcanite.

The 'rustication' of Ian's Rox Cut pipes is a time consuming process done entirely by hand. This unique finish has proved to be extremely popular while Ian's skill in silver mounting also enhances many traditional styles of pipes.

In an era when all too many manufacturing skills have declined, it's good to see a leading practioner of his industry floating on the Audlem scene – and bringing a band of pipe smoking followers with him who, we are told, had a great day in the village on Sunday.

And for those anxious for the result of the smoke off, first place went to John Whitlock (50 minutes and 20 seconds); 2nd was Steve Green (48.15) and third was Ian Walker himself in 42.45.

This article is from our news archive. As a result pictures or videos originally associated with it may have been removed and some of the content may no longer be accurate or relevant.