The blacksmith was once crucial to village life, whether commissioned for the humblest repair, the most luxurious ironwork or even the odd anvil marriage.

Occupying prime position in the village, the forge attracted custom from miles around and was a hive of industry and social interaction. In this nostalgic introduction, David L. McDougall here describes the varied work blacksmiths undertook, the tools and techniques they used, and the magical and mystical qualities with which they were associated.

If you want to know more about the rise and fall of the country blacksmith - and the recent revival of the craft - this colourfully illustrated book is the ideal introduction.