Test Valley Blacksmith receives £4,575 grant from Rural England Prosperity Fund
Philip Grob, a renowned blacksmith based in Nether Wallop, has been awarded a £4,575 grant from the UK Government’s Rural England Prosperity Fund through Test Valley Borough Council.
Philip's blacksmith business, established in 2006, offers bespoke ironwork for a variety of projects, including original commissions, commercial projects, and professional restorations. The business provides on-site welding, steel fabrication, original design, forging, and fitting services. The grant has enabled Philip to purchase a new welding table, significantly enhancing his workshop's productivity.
Philip's journey into blacksmithing began after leaving an office job in London. He gained experience with a farrier and discovered his passion for the craft while helping at a local forge. Over the years, Philip's business has grown, moving from a lean-to in his parents’ garden to a dedicated forge at a farm in Nether Wallop.
In 2024, Philip saw an opportunity to expand further by taking on a work experience student, Hannah, who has since become a full-time trainee blacksmith. The addition of a new welding table, funded by the grant, allows both Philip and Hannah to work in parallel, and to take on larger projects.
Philip said, "The grant has made such a difference to us and our productivity. The new welding table allows us to take on larger projects. I'm incredibly thankful to Test Valley Borough Council for their support."
Councillor Stewart MacDonald from the Mid-Test Valley ward, "We are delighted to support local businesses like Philip's through the Rural England Prosperity Fund. It's inspiring to see how this grant will help Philip, and his team continue to grow and contribute to our community."
The Government’s Rural England Prosperity Fund provides capital funding for rural business and rural communities. TVBC received just over half a million pounds to be distributed between rural businesses and rural community organisations to help develop rural economies. The grants were open to businesses and community groups across the rural areas of our borough all the funds have now been allocated. The funding is part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Notes to editors
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus’
