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A local family-run fabrication and welding company has combined artistic excellence and natural beauty to create a stunning centrepiece for a West Lothian high street.

Granfab Ltd was commissioned to design and engineer a bespoke planter and sculpture to enhance the beauty of the local town. To ensure it’s able to be enjoyed for generations, they also enlisted the support of local galvanizers to protect it against rust and corrosion for up to 70 years.

Kevin Hope, Director at Granfab Ltd, said: “As part of their commitment to horticultural, environmental and community activities, a few months ago we were approached by Burgh Beautiful Linlithgow, asking if we could create a bespoke piece to take pride of place in the centre of the town, close to the Palace. It sounded like a great project, and one we were thrilled to be involved in.

“In total, the thistle planter and sculpture took around 80 hours to fabricate, and was made from steel tube, plate and spheres. The structure proudly stands three metres tall, and boasts three individual stems and flowers.”

As Scotland’s national flower, the thistle has strong roots within the town. Not only does it represent resilience, protection and longevity, but it was also the original name for the town’s Amateur Football Club.

“Like what it stands for, we wanted to ensure that this piece would be protected against the elements, and able to be enjoyed for decades,” Kevin continued. “So, we called upon our long-time partners, Scottish Galvanizers Ltd due to their high quality workmanship, knowledge, and professionalism.”

The thistle sculpture was transported to Scottish Galvanizers Ltd where it was entirely immersed in a bath of molten zinc at temperatures around 450C, to allow for a metallurgically-bonded coating to be formed. It was then installed, using a crane, into its high street location in June.

Paul Tait, Commercial Manager at Scottish Galvanizers Ltd, added: “It was great to work with Kevin and the Granfab Ltd team again, and to support them with this project that’s set to become a piece of local history in Linlithgow.

“We’re regularly in awe of Kevin’s fantastic creations when he brings them to us to be galvanized. Because of this incredible talent, his unwavering loyalty, and the beautiful sentimental meaning behind this particular piece, we’re delighted to announce that it will feature in our prestigious Wedge Group Galvanizing Ltd calendar 2025.”

By Wedge Group Galvanizing Ltd

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