Chichester-based Cathedral Works Organisation (CWO) Ltd is celebrating a double award win after scooping two prestigious Sussex Heritage Trust Awards for its specialist restoration work at Woodvale Crematorium on Lewes Road, Brighton.

CWO picked up top honours earlier this month in the Ecclesiastical Building category and Ian Robb was named Project Craftsman of the Year for the flintwork he carried out around the tower and gables. The essential works on the tower were carried out in two phases and included the windows, buttresses, gables and arches, in addition to re-securing the carved angel figure. The Property & Design Department of Brighton & Hove City Council was the Building Surveyor and Contract Administrator for the project.

The judges commented on Ian’s impressive work; “The flintwork challenges were complex. Inherent faults in the existing structure had to be corrected and taken into account. This work required working in very exposed and uncomfortable conditions at night and his resilience is to be commended.” Of the Ecclesiastical award win, the judges said; “Numerous hidden challenges came to light once the work started, which required detailed analysis. The problems were tackled by an experienced approach with a pro active team ethic. This is an excellent piece of work.”

Bernard Burns, Managing Director of CWO, is delighted to win these awards, commenting; "We are very proud of our restoration and conservation work and continue to work closely with local communities. Winning two awards is such a positive talking point and means a great deal to me personally. I am extremely fortunate to be supported by an award-winning tea - thank you to everyone involved.”

The Awards scheme started in 1998 and aims to recognise and reward conservation, restoration and good design of new-build together with encouraging the use of traditional skills and crafts. CWO’s work in the local community includes restoration work on bridges, castles, churches, country walls, famous schools including Roedean and Christ’s Hospital, and stately homes including Petworth House, Goodwood House and Wiston House. After an absence of 15 years, CWO is delighted to be back at Chichester Cathedral, its place of origin, having secured the contract for restoration and conservation work on the East Cloisters and St Faith’s House.