When Neil Handsaker picked up his chisel and began restoring the 15th century stone work at Charlecote Park in Warwick, it wasn't just 'another day at the office'.
For Neil is the third generation of skilled tradesmen to work on National Trust properties for Birmingham-based conservation specialists, William Sapcote & Sons.
He follows in the footsteps of his father, Peter, who is also a stonemason, and his grandfather, Wally, who worked as a carpenter for Sapcote from the 30s until 1984.
The father and son duo are currently working on a £270,000 project to restore the Victorian chimneys at Charlecote Park, a National Trust property which has been the home of the Lucy family for more than 700 years.
Peter Handsaker, site manager, said: "My father worked for Sapcote & Sons from the age of 22 until he retired 43 years later. He loved his job and when I was growing up I decided I wanted to learn a trade like him. Whereas he was a joiner, I chose stone masonry and I was delighted when my own son chose to become a stone mason as well. There's something special about working on projects like Charlecote Park."
Richard Sapcote, managing director of William Sapcote & Sons, paid tribute to them.
"Having three skilled tradesmen like that is a rarity and their combined expertise has made a real difference."
