Following the success of the lime mortar training day at the Abbey Ruins in Reading, Berkshire, in August, Cliveden Conservation, which presented the course, is planning more of the lime days at various locations next year.

In Reading, Cliveden, which is an Institute of Historic Building Conservation CPD Provider, partnered with Stone Federation to deliver the day-long lime mortar training course.

The course gave attendees the chance to learn more about using lime mortar on historic buildings, and to hone their skills on the historic Reading Abbey Ruins.

The course content included:

• An introduction to using lime mortar on historic buildings
• Walk down through the Reading Abbey Ruins to The Reredorter
• H&S toolbox talk
• Mixing demonstration of different binders
• Practical sessions on the application of mortar and techniques for pointing, consolidation and tending.

Jane Buxey, the Stone Federation Chief Executive, said of the event: "Training and the promotion of best practice is at the top of the Federation’s agenda. The opportunity to give those in the heritage stone sector the opportunity to hone their skills with the experts from Stone Federation member Cliveden Conservation has been fantastic."

Lewis Proudfoot, the Managing Director of Cliveden Conservation, added: "Our first lime training day was a great success, with Stone Federation members from around the country coming to learn about the practical implications of using lime mortar on historic buildings.

"It was wonderful to see companies showing their commitment to the continued professional development of their employees, especially in an area that is so critical for the sustainable success of our nation's heritage.

"Cliveden Conservation looks forward to hosting more training sessions around the country to further develop traditional skills."

If you would like to be among the first to know about next year's lime courses as they are arranged, email [email protected] and the company will inform you when and where they will be taking place.

There are more pictures from the Reading Abbey Ruins day below to whet your appetite.