After several weeks of work to create a new stone sculpture to replace the old wooden head of the dragon which had deteriorated beyond repair, the new face was finally manoeuvred into place in mid March and secured into place at the head of the existing stone wall. Creating a long term replacement to the previous head was essential to ensure this wonderful historic site remained accessible to all and the legend of the Dragon of Wantley was preserved for future generations.
SVP, The Woodland Trust, as well as local volunteers have worked together to save this historic site and Andrew Vickers Art Stoneface Creative was commissioned to create the sculpture and breath new life into “The Wantley Dragon”. As the weather improved the team have planted the “flames” for the dragon sculpture. A native wildflower seed mixture has been sewn consisting of Birds Foot Trefoil, Ladies Bed Straw, Kidney Vetch, Corn Marigold and Corn Poppy. This should give a wonderful and colourful display in early summer. Please be aware the seeded area is currently taped off to give the seeds chance to germinate and it would be much appreciated if you visit the site that you refrain from walking on the seeded area whilst the plants are getting established.
Steel Valley Project will also organise and lead a family walk to the site in the summer as a celebration event.
Work on the Dragon of Wantley has been funded in partnership with Stocksbridge Town Council, Sheffield City Council and The Woodland Trust.
The Wantley Dragon lives to fight another day
A meadow of fiery "flames" being planted by volunteers