The Accona Logstore from F2 Fires at Eurostove
The Accona Logstore from F2 Fires at Eurostove Brings Elevated Heating to the Home On a cold winter’s day, the last thing anyone wants to do is to trudge outside to gather logs for the fire. Whether it’s kept in the garage, outhouse or shed, any dry, untreated wood is much more convenient if it’s stored inside the home. So, what better solution than a logstore stove, with ready to burn wood piled neatly underneath. The Accona Logstore from F2 Fires is just the thing. Blending classic styling with a compact design, it’s crafted to fit effortlessly into a standard fireplace opening and is available now from Somerset-based and family-run stove supplier, manufacturer and distributor, Eurostove. Logstore fires are ideal for all properties and thanks to their optimum airflow for burning efficiency, effortless convenience and cosy aesthetic, they provide the perfect focal point in any living space. The Accona Logstore from F2 Fires features clean burn technology and an advanced secondary air wash system. Both work together to ensure a clean and clear view of the flickering flames within while maintaining a clean and clear glass door. The airflow meanwhile is easily managed with user-friendly controls that operate the stove’s performance and 5kW nominal heat output with a versatile 3-6kW range. Expertly crafted from cast iron, the Accona Logstore is extremely durable and hardwearing, radiating heat evenly throughout the room to maximise its efficiency. It’s also designed for convenience and safety and is suitable for use with a 12mm glass hearth, adding a touch of elegance to any fireplace setting. Adjustable feet bring added flexibility, making it perfect for period properties with an uneven stone floor. This freestanding multi-fuel logstore stove is A+ rated for energy efficiency, Eco-design compliant and approved for use in Smoke Control areas. It’s also affordably priced, so suits all budgets and is ideal for retrofit projects, renovations, conversions and new-builds alike. The Accona is also available as a standard stove, without logstore “The Accona Logstore multi-fuel stove brings built-in convenience to the home,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “Compact and cosy, it fits into any standard fireplace opening and provides 5kW nominal heat output to warm any space this autumn/winter.” The Accona Logstore stove from F2 Fires is priced £875 at Eurostove
The Trade Stove & Fireplace Professional Show 2026: it’s like we’ve got our industry back!
The first Trade Stove and Fireplace Professional Show was a phenomenally HOT time for many in the industry – in more ways than one. The weekend in Doncaster was held across the 30th-31st May 2026 – during the tail-end of a heatwave which showed no signs of letting up as traders began to put up their stands. The builds ranged from small but quirky stands to outdoor sheds, stages, and gigantic displays which almost scraped the ceiling of the Doncaster Racecourse building. You could play foosball on the Tortoise stand, cook bacon butties with Mendip or sit and have a beer with Poujoulat. The whole industry was represented, from component manufacturers and stove suppliers to chimney sweeps, trade associations, fuel providers and electric fire wholesalers. Accessories were also in abundance – some of the log baskets were so huge you could climb inside them (although we didn’t try this, honest!). A fireside dream come true Behind a huge amount of the organisation was Selina Brannan from M.A.C. Metalcraft, who had a dream of bringing the industry back together on a grand scale following a break of such events due to the Covid years. Selina said: “The show has been amazing – it’s well exceeded my expectations – nice to see everyone from the industry together, networking in a positive way – it’s been great. “The M.A.C stand has been fantastic, I’m really pleased with how it looks, how it’s been set out. We’ve had some great feedback, and we’ve been able to showcase our new products — four new stoves, a range of fire surrounds and media wall electric fires.” Emma Hatherall, from Fireplace Specialist Magazine, said: “There’s been such a buzz, everyone’s really chuffed! It’s what the industry has been crying out for. Positive future ahead for the stove and fireplace trade “We’ve been delighted to see so many companies really step up with wonderful products to promote at the show and, from the magazine’s point of view, we’ve been really happy to help create the positive atmosphere. “We’ve found that the industry has really got involved in promoting the show, especially on social media, and we’ve been able to do that too through the magazine and allow people to have a wider platform. “We’ve been speaking to so many businesses who now want to advertise in the next issue of the magazine and through our e-shots, they want to keep that momentum up after the show.” Recoheat’s Will Burrows was at the expo to promote his revolutionary heat recovery system. His heat pump boosts stove performance by circulating warm air around the appliance, helping reduce fuel consumption while improving heat output. Boosting businesses Will said: “It’s been brilliant! The key to exhibitions is having a live stove so people can feel our product’s effect on the heat. “We’ve been to other shows before but this one has a lot more fireplace shops visiting, distributors and overseas manufacturers as well – so the people we want to speak to. It’s been very, very good. “We’ve seen good numbers, and had a chance to connect with the people we really want to talk to. Retail showrooms are seeing and feeling the product in action so they want to put them in their showrooms. Feeling it is the difference between being convinced about the product or not.” The trade was also able to touch base with industry bodies and David Hamilton, head of membership at the Stove Industry Association which also helped to organise the event, said: “The show has been amazing and far exceeded expectations. We’ve had lots of positive feedback at the event and we’re looking forward to another show — it will get bigger and better hopefully! “From the SIA’s point of view, we’ve been delighted to support the show and encourage members to attend, signed some new members up which is both rewarding and increases the size of our voice with the government.” A sweeping success Jez Brook, from the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, said: “It’s been a good show for us. Our aim was to promote the Guild, our training course and to get people signed up as members — we think we have achieved this. “There’s been a good atmosphere. We have been around the other stands at the expo, and were impressed by the variety of exhibitors – some have clearly spent a fortune on their stands! “We have our own show for chimney sweeps, but it has been worthwhile coming here to Doncaster. Shops which employ sweeps have spoken to us and joined as a business – then each sweep will get a membership number as well. “And the show has been an opportunity for us to tell people about Find A Sweep – our directory for consumers – as each member gets into the directory, where customers can then search for their business.” The next steps for the Trade Stove and Fireplace Professional Show So the question on everyone’s lips at the event was: will there be another? Selina says: “It’s 100% going to happen, I can see myself doing this for the next 25 years! I’ve been in the industry since I was 19, and it’s such a nice industry to be in. It’s great to be able to support the industry and everyone in it – including our competitors! “Our industry needs this and it’s better that people within the industry organise this event. The first show has given me some different ideas about future exhibitions.” On his way out of Doncaster Racecourse on Sunday afternoon as the stands were being broken down, James Verlaque from the SIA and CEFACD — who spoke at the event on ‘The View From Brussels’ — summed up the vibe of the whole event nicely. He said: “I was talking to someone at the show who told me, ‘The buzz here has been incredible — it’s like we’ve got our industry back!’” A huge thank you to each and every person who was a part of the Trade Stove and
Anti-stove council’s ‘Cosy Killer’ ad banned by regulators
Brighton & Hove City Council (BHCC) has been told that one of the posters used in its controversial ‘Cosy Killer’ campaign breaches advertising regulations. The Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) has upheld a complaint which accused the council of misleadingly implying the use of wood burners and open fires was the cause of the an increase in particle pollution around four schools. However, the ASA has not banned BHCC from continuing to use the ‘Cosy Killer’ slogan in future campaigning. The digital poster, seen around the region last December, included a graphic of a wood-burning stove that was emitting smoke in the shape of an adult and child, and the text: “Harmful particle pollution near 4 city primary schools was 78% higher last winter compared with last summer. Wood burners and open fires. The cosy killer.” The ASA ruling said: “The ad implied that wood burners and open fires were the cause of the claimed increase in particulate pollution around four city primary schools. “However, we have not seen evidence to substantiate the claim. We therefore concluded the ad was likely to mislead.” It is the second time the ASA has taken issue with BHCC’s ‘Cosy Killer’ campaign. It issued the council with an ‘Advice Notice’ last year after its use of data in its winter 24/25 campaign was found to be inaccurate. At the time, Councillor Tim Rowkins, BHCC’s cabinet member for net zero and environmental services, denied they had been warned, saying they had merely been told to be more careful with their citing of data. Now after a second intervention from the ASA he has remained unapologetic about the council’s public messaging linking wood burning with death. In a statement to Fireplace Specialist magazine, Cllr Rowkins said: “We have clear and detailed local data that shows the impact that burning solid fuels has on air quality in our densely populated urban areas. “The health implications of PM2.5 exposure are well-documented and we have a duty to protect the health of our residents. “We are committed to ensuring our messages are accurate and reliable. The ASA has ruled that, in one of the campaign graphics we used, there was an insufficiently clear link to the evidence. We accept that ruling and will be taking time to review it to ensure any learning for the future. “There was no ruling against the campaign as a whole or the other materials that were used. The campaign ended in February, and we have no plans to run it again in its original form. “Later this year we’ll be introducing a new Smoke Control Area covering most of the city, accompanied by information and clear guidance on what can be burned and how. “We’re working towards cleaner air in Brighton & Hove and will always act to protect the health of people in our city.” A spokesperson for HETAS, said: “This ruling is a reminder that all claims – including those about air quality – need to hold up to scrutiny. “Domestic burning is a recognised contributor to particulate pollution, but the amount any single fire produces varies widely: appliance type and age, fuel quality, how a stove is operated, and how well it is maintained all make a measurable difference.” Erica Malkin, Executive Director at the Stove Industry Association, said: “The ASA’s ruling highlights the importance of balanced and evidence-led discussion around air quality and domestic heating. “The SIA has always recognised that air quality is an important public health issue, and we support proportionate measures that deliver meaningful emissions reductions. Air quality is a complex issue involving multiple contributing sources, which is why constructive and balanced public discussion is so important. “The industry has invested significantly in modern stove technology, fuel quality standards and consumer education. Today’s Ecodesign-compliant appliances are specifically designed to achieve lower emissions and improved efficiency compared to older appliances and open fires. “We hope this ruling encourages a more balanced and constructive conversation about how we continue improving air quality while recognising the progress that has already been made and the role that modern, responsibly operated appliances can play in people’s homes.” Andy Genovese, owner of Hove Wood Burners, who was one of the two complainants against the advert, said he was pleased to see the ASA take action. He said he would prefer to see BHCC promote the cleanest and best wood burning stoves and practices rather than labelling the entire industry ‘Cosy Killers’.
World of Fireplaces 2027 and an industry in transition: challenges open up new opportunities
Following two successful editions, World of Fireplaces (WOF) is now firmly established in the trade fair calendar and has earned a reputation as one of the most important platforms for the European fireplace industry. In the run-up to the third edition, which will take place once again in Leipzig from 13 to 15 April 2027, there is already considerable interest from stakeholders across the entire value chain. For in a phase of profound change, manufacturers, suppliers, retailers and tradespeople are increasingly seeking exchange, guidance, fresh impetus and shared perspectives. As an international trade fair for fireplaces and modern heating solutions, WOF is setting the course to once again serve as a catalyst for dialogue and innovation in 2027. New requirements are reshaping the role of modern fireplaces whilst simultaneously opening up new opportunities. Market trends for fireplaces in recent years clearly illustrate this: according to data from the WOF’s sponsoring body, the German Association for Home, Heating and Kitchen Technology (HKI), the German fireplace industry remains a significant part of the heating market, with an annual turnover of around 1.1 billion euros and an annual production of approximately 315,000 wood-burning stoves. At the same time with an export ratio of around 50 per cent, the sector maintains a strong international focus. Following the sharp decline in the pellet heating sector in 2024 (–45 %), which was largely driven by political uncertainties, a noticeable recovery began as early as 2025. In 2026, too, economic uncertainties, changes in subsidy conditions and new regulatory requirements continue to influence investment decisions. At the same time, positive signs are increasing both nationally and internationally: the growing global demand for sustainable heating solutions is opening up promising prospects for hybrid heating concepts and creating new growth potential for the entire industry. World of Fireplaces 2027 builds on this momentum and showcases the innovative solutions and forward-looking technologies with which the industry is actively shaping the heating transition of the coming years. Cleaner, smarter, more integrated: fireplaces as part of modern heating concepts The global trend towards sustainable heating solutions and increasingly stringent requirements regarding emissions and efficiency are driving the technological advancement of fireplaces and transforming their role in the heating market. They are increasingly viewed not merely as standalone products, but as integral components of integrated heating and energy concepts. Bjarne Varre, a member of the supervisory board at Nordpeis and an exhibitor at WOF, sums up this trend: “Only if heating systems are constantly developed further, thereby becoming more efficient and producing lower emissions, can they continue to make their important contribution as a renewable source of space heating in the future.” There is a demand for technologies that can be seamlessly integrated into smart home concepts, yet at the same time, expectations regarding design and comfort are rising. The industry’s focus on innovation is shifting — from pure heat generation towards system integration, digital control, filter technology and high-quality design. Alongside technical criteria, however, the emotional factor remains crucial: the fireplace continues to be a design feature in the living space, associated with atmosphere and cosiness. The Danish language probably describes this best with ‘hygge’ – a way of life that stands for cosiness, well-being and slowing down, and which is becoming all the more important, particularly in increasingly volatile times. Furthermore, particularly in the wake of the energy crises of recent years, the desire for security of supply and greater self-sufficiency has become a key factor in the decision to purchase a fireplace. Fireplaces are increasingly seen as a complement to existing heating systems, whilst wood is being re-evaluated as a locally available energy source. The fact that World of Fireplaces resonates strongly with the industry thanks to its clear forward-looking approach is demonstrated by the overwhelming response from exhibitors. Numerous returning exhibitors have already confirmed their participation for 2027, whilst the trade fair is also attracting further renowned companies, particularly from across Europe. Rudolf Körber, Head of Marketing and Sales at RIKA Innovative Ofentechnik, emphasises: “Our successful appearance at the 2025 fair confirmed that World of Fireplaces is a key industry meeting place for us – which is why we’ll be back again in 2027. The fair offers the ideal setting for face-to-face exchanges with long-standing partners and specialist retailers, as well as for inspiring discussions within the industry.” World of Fireplaces will once again be organised in 2027 by trendfairs GmbH in collaboration with its partner and official sponsor, the HKI Industry Association for Home, Heating and Kitchen Technology. The association supports the trade fair as a key voice within the sector and underscores its importance as a platform for innovation, exchange and political dialogue. Frank Kienle, Managing Director of the HKI, says: “With this new edition of WOF, we stand as partners of the trade fair for innovation, safety and continuity for the retail, trade and industrial sectors. WOF combines tradition and innovation and, with the Fireplace HUB, offers a central platform for dialogue within the industry as well as for political discourse. Personal exchange is at the heart of this. Modern fireplaces and innovative secondary measures make an important contribution to reducing emissions and promoting more climate-friendly heating solutions.” Now in its third edition, World of Fireplaces 2027 builds on the success of previous years and once again focuses on the themes that will shape the future of modern heating: efficiency, security of supply, system integration and professional networking within the industry. Save the Date WORLD OF FIREPLACES 202713 –15 April 2027 | Leipzig Messe | Germany |Hall 5 You can visit the trade show website here.
New Beltane Cary stoves from Eurostove
Give the home a warm welcome with the new Beltane Cary stoves from Eurostove. Whilst summer is just around the corner, those crisp autumnal evenings and wet wintry afternoons are not too far away. Which is why this is the perfect time to start planning a heating upgrade for the home. Beltane Stoves has two new woodburning stove designs for 2026, both available now at Eurostove. The Cary woodburning stove is an impressively large fire with generous dimensions and a 5kW nominal heat output, ideal for medium-sized rooms, open-plan living and period properties with draughty floorboards and window frames. It can burn logs up to 35cm in size and is sure to make an instant impression on family and friends, as it boasts outstanding performance with a striking style. A large glass window offers a tantalizing view of the flickering flames inside, perfect for a cosy and captivating focal point in any living space, while its sleek, clean lines are beautifully combined with a timeless design, which can be installed as a freestanding stove or into an existing fireplace – great for a retro renovation as well as a central focus in a new-build or grand design. With an excellent heat range of 4-6kW, the new Cary woodburning stove from Beltane Stoves offers a comfortable and consistent heat even in larger rooms with easy-to-use air controls to operate the burn rate for total control over heat output and efficiency. As an added benefit, the stove is lined with vermiculite, a natural insulating material, which improves combustion performance and helps to maximise heat retention. Crafted for durability as well as long-term reliability, the Cary is made to withstand daily use and is A+ energy efficiency rated for reduced fuel consumption and sustainability. It’s also DEFRA approved for use in smoke control areas as well as EcoDesign compliant. The Beltane Cary woodburning stove is also available from Eurostove as a logstore model, perfect for keeping dried and seasoned logs close to hand for quick and easy access when snuggling in on a cold winter’s day. “We are delighted to welcome the Beltane Cary family to our portfolio of woodburning stoves for 2026,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “With the option of a logstore model too, this duo of timelessly classic stoves blends character with clean lines – ideal for modern living.” The Beltane Cary is available from Eurostove, priced £895 and the Cary Logstore, £1,081.
Eurostoves’ Mark Blewitt Takes on Mallorca Cycling Challenge
By Mark Blewitt, national sales manager at Eurostove. A Raleigh Chopper bicycle for Christmas when I was young set me on a journey. Fifty years later, the Chopper is a distant memory, but a love of cycling remains. Last year, an invitation came my way to join the Ripples charity cycle ride around Mallorca. I could give you chapter and verse on the descent to Sa Calobra, or the long, slow climb back up to Coll dels Reis. Our group of fifteen riders was mixed ability, but thankfully there were others at my pace — and no time cut offs. What made the trip truly special was the camaraderie. Helping a fellow rider up a climb, sharing food, fixing a puncture, sheltering in the mouth of a tunnel during a thunderstorm, and of course, the occasional coffee stop — it all turned the challenge into a team effort. And while we were doing all that, the holiday was doing something important too: raising funds for The Cycle, a charity that builds toilet blocks in parts of the world where sanitation is desperately lacking. It’s something we take for granted, yet it transforms lives — allowing children to attend school and adults to work safely and with dignity. The charity is incredibly grateful for every donation; as an organisation working on sanitation projects far from the spotlight, it isn’t high profile, so every contribution matters. The Mallorca cycling challenge is now complete, but the fundraising continues. The money raised will become a lasting legacy in the form of a new sanitation block in a village that urgently needs it. If you would like to donate, please follow the link. https://around-the-island-cycle-challenge-2026.raiselysite.com/mark-blewitt
Exhibitor Applications Now Open for Be Fire, The International Trade Fair for Biomass Heating
From 10 to 12 February 2027, BolognaFiere will host Be Fire, an innovative, cutting-edge trade fair focused on heating and energy production from woody biomass. Wood and pellet-burning stoves, fireplaces, boilers and cookers will be in the spotlight at Be Fire, BolognaFiere’s new international event dedicated to fire and biomass heating technologies. The event will take place at the Bologna Exhibition Centre from 10 to 12 February 2027. Companies can now apply to exhibit at this new event, which aims to bring visibility, fresh energy and vision to a strategic sector of the energy transition through a B2B event capable of combining business, technology and the culture of fire. Today, the biomass heating sector faces three key challenges that are holding back its development: visibility that remains too national and fragmented; a real need for technological and commercial innovation; and a narrative that, until now, has placed the emotional dimension in the background — the very element that makes fire desirable, welcoming and deeply connected to the experience of warmth and well-being. Be Fire responds to these needs with an innovative trade fair format designed to strengthen competitiveness by building a leading European platform where industry, the supply chain, institutions and the market can engage in structured dialogue on technological innovation, environmental sustainability and regulatory alignment. It will be a place capable of supporting the evolution of biomass heating while enhancing its industrial, energy and employment contribution. “Today, the energy produced from biomass — firewood, pellets and wood chips — represents the first source of renewable energy in Italy and the second most important source for domestic heating,” says Antonio Bruzzone, CEO of BolognaFiere. “Despite this, the sector often receives limited recognition, even though it includes Italian companies that are European leaders in the production of stoves, boilers and fireplaces. This is an industry that needs greater visibility and clearer legitimacy in its dialogue with institutions.” For three days, business, innovation and emotion will be at the heart of a strongly international setting. Be Fire will create networking opportunities and present the sector’s most important technological innovations, highlighting the progress achieved by manufacturers in reducing fine particulate emissions, improving appliance efficiency and developing solutions dedicated to air quality. Significant attention will also be devoted to the development of advanced technologies and new applications. “Be Fire aims to respond to this need,” Bruzzone concludes, “positioning itself as an international platform for business, innovation and dialogue among all players in the supply chain. It is a format designed to support a sector operating in a complex and constantly evolving context, offering concrete tools for growth and new opportunities for development.” Be Fire stems from BolognaFiere’s experience — as one of Italy’s leading exhibition groups in terms of turnover, number of events organised and capacity for internationalisation — and from the awareness that the biomass heating sector today requires a broader, more integrated and supranational vision. This industry needs to expand its boundaries, drive innovation not only in products but also in business models, and rediscover the aesthetic and emotional value of fire. The event will take place from 10 to 12 February 2027 at BolognaFiere, where the energy of fire meets the future of business. You can visit the website here: https://www.be-fire.it/
Strong Turnout and New Members Mark Success of SIA Scotland Industry Event
The Stove Industry Association (SIA) has hailed its recent two-day industry event in Perth, Scotland, as a major success, following strong attendance from businesses across Scotland and the wider UK and the signing of nine new SIA members during the event. Held at the Mercure Perth Hotel on 29th and 30th April, the event brought together approximately 120 attendees across four sessions, including manufacturers, retailers, installers, chimney sweeps, fuel suppliers, flue specialists and other stakeholders from across the solid fuel and domestic heating sector. The event was open to both existing SIA members and businesses interested in learning more about the work of the Association and the rapidly changing policy and regulatory landscape affecting the sector. The sessions focused on some of the most significant challenges and opportunities currently facing the industry, including: Particular attention was given to the evolving political and regulatory landscape in Scotland, including the SIA’s successful engagement with the Scottish Government on the New Build Heat Standard and ongoing discussions around air quality policy, heat decarbonisation and domestic combustion. Speaking after the event, Erica Malkin, Executive Director of the Stove Industry Association, said: “The response to our Scotland event was incredibly positive and demonstrated just how important it is for the sector to come together during a period of significant change and increasing external scrutiny. “We were delighted to welcome such a strong mix of existing members and businesses that are considering joining the Association. The fact that nine new members signed up during the event reflects the growing recognition that the industry needs a strong, united and evidence-led trade association voice more than ever before. “The conversations across both days were open, constructive and forward-looking. There was a clear appetite for collaboration, better engagement with policymakers and a shared commitment to ensuring that modern appliances, technological progress and responsible burning practices are properly recognised in future policy discussions.” The SIA presentation highlighted the distinction between modern Ecodesign compliant stoves and older appliances and open fires, alongside the importance of proportionate, evidence-based regulation and consumer education. It also explored the increasing influence of health-focused narratives, growing media scrutiny and the importance of ensuring that industry expertise is represented in policy discussions at both UK and devolved government level. The event also reinforced the growing importance of Scotland within the wider UK policy landscape, with attendees discussing how devolved policy decisions are increasingly shaping market conditions, public messaging and future regulatory direction. The SIA says it plans to build on the momentum from the Perth event with further member engagement activities across the UK. For more information about the Stove Industry Association visit www.stoveindustryassociation.org and to discuss member benefits and options contact David Hamilton, SIA Head of Membership on 07789 656123 or by email to david@stoveindustryassociation.org
Chimney sweep sets THREE world records on epic global bike ride
Norfolk sweep George Kohler has returned home to a hero’s welcome after an extraordinary 30,000km, 14 month global bike ride. After nearly 400 days on the road, George, 57 and his son Josh Kohler, 23, passed through an avenue of rods and brushes raised high as they crossed the finish line to a guard of honour from sweeps from across the country. Hundreds of people lined the streets to cheer them home as they completed their ‘Pedal the Planet’ expedition, which has seen them cycle through more than 30 countries across Europe, Asia, Oceania and South America, climbing a total of 180,000 metres in the process – the equivalent of 20 Mount Everests. Alongside the physical feat, the duo have raised more than £40,000 for UNICEF UK to support vulnerable children worldwide. Guinness World Records adjudicator Joanne Brent presented George and Josh with the Guinness World Records™ titles for longest bicycle journey by a father and son, and most countries visited in a continuous bicycle journey by a father and son. They have also achieved the fastest bicycle circumnavigation by a father and son. George, a former British Army serviceman of 27 years, said: “Cycling back into Norfolk and seeing hundreds of people lining the streets for us was something I don’t think either of us will ever forget. After 400 days on the road, to finish like that was incredibly emotional. “Over the year, there were days where it was just about putting one pedal stroke after another, getting through the heat, the climbs or the relentless headwinds. “But then there were moments where you look around and realise you’re somewhere extraordinary, riding through the Australian outback, climbing high into the Andes, or arriving in a village where people welcome you like old friends. “To have shared all of that with Josh, and to now come home having completed it together, makes me immensely proud.” Josh added: “What has really stayed with me is the kindness of strangers. People we had never met before invited us into their homes, helped us fix our bikes, cooked us meals or simply stood at the side of the road to cheer us on. That generosity has been one of the most powerful parts of the entire journey.” Lawson Wight, chair of the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, was one of the many sweeps who took part in the homecoming celebration. On behalf of the Guild, he presented each of them with a unique engraved tankard. He said: “We wanted to do something special to welcome them back, it’s such a great achievement. It was really quite an emotional afternoon for everybody. Around 300 friends, family and many complete strangers cheered them over the line.“ You can also find this article in issue 20 of Fireplace Specialist Magazine: https://fireplacespecialistmagazine.co.uk/3dissue/fireplace-issue-20/
The Hearth Store: Your Trade Partner for Bespoke Stone Hearths, Delivered Nationwide
When it comes to specifying the perfect hearth, today’s fireplace retailers and installers need more than just a supplier — they need a partner who understands the pace, precision, and presentation standards the trade demands. At The Hearth Store (www.thehearthstore.co.uk), we’ve built our entire operation around exactly that: serving fireplace specialists, showrooms, and installers across the UK with bespoke, cut-to-size natural stone hearths that arrive ready to fit, on time, every time. Built for the Trade We know that margins matter, and so does reliability. That’s why we offer exclusive trade discounts to fireplace retailers, installers, and showroom partners who register with us. Whether you’re fulfilling a single bespoke order for a period restoration or stocking up for a busy showroom season, our trade pricing structure is designed to help you win more quotes and protect your bottom line — without compromising on the quality of stone your customers expect. Bespoke, Cut-to-Size — No Compromises Every fireplace opening is different, and “standard sizes” rarely do the job justice. The Hearth Store specialises in bespoke, cut-to-size hearths crafted from a carefully curated range of natural stones — including granite, limestone, slate, marble, and honed micro-finishes — to suit everything from contemporary wood-burner installations to traditional inglenook restorations. Send us your dimensions, and we’ll fabricate to the millimetre. Fast Supply Times That Keep Your Jobs Moving Delays cost money and damage reputations. Our UK-based fabrication facility and streamlined production workflow mean we offer some of the fastest lead times in the industry, with most bespoke hearths dispatched within days rather than weeks. For trade customers working to tight installation schedules, this is the difference between a satisfied client and a rescheduled fitter. Delivered Throughout the UK We deliver nationwide, direct to your showroom, workshop, or site address. Every hearth is carefully packaged and palletised to arrive in perfect condition, and our logistics team keeps you informed every step of the way so you can plan installations with confidence. Boxing, Lipping, and Matching Slips — All Included A hearth is rarely just a hearth. That’s why we supply: Every component is fabricated from the same stone slab wherever possible, guaranteeing a flawless visual match that pre-cut, off-the-shelf alternatives simply cannot deliver. Why Specialists Choose The Hearth Store Partner With Us If you’re a fireplace retailer, stove installer, or builder looking for a reliable stone hearth supplier who treats your deadlines as seriously as you do, we’d love to hear from you. Visit www.thehearthstore.co.uk to register for a trade account, request samples, or submit your first bespoke quote — and discover why more UK fireplace specialists are making The Hearth Store their go-to hearth partner. The Hearth Store — Bespoke stone hearths, cut to size, delivered nationwide.