Graham Watling
In 1972, Graham Watling  who became head of the Art and Craft Department at the local school, having originally been a Commando in the Royal Marines, finally decided to leave teaching  after 17 years   to pursue his trade as a gold and silversmith.

By the time he had passed away in 1996, the business started in Lacock, had flourished and became established as one of the premier Gold and Silversmiths in the country.

Graham did his formal training at Loughborough University where he achieved a BA Hons. in silversmithing. He was then registered with the Assay Office in London, having his own Hallmark straight from graduation.

Graham Watling hand raising a silver plate 1982
Graham's work has been exhibited by the Craft Council of Great Britain, at the Craft Centre London, the Bluecoat Gallery Liverpool and many exhibitions abroad including the World Fairs at Montreal and Tokyo.

Much of his work was specially commissioned for presentation, both by private individuals and companies to mark special occasions and anniversaries. He also specialized in ecclesiastical work and many famous churches carry his ceremonial and memorial pieces.

Sterling Silver Chalice & Paten by Graham Watling
Born in North Yorkshire, England, Graham was very down to earth and modest, would often speak his mind and only make pieces that he enjoyed, often turning down multiple commissions so that he could make more individual work.

He was one of the few silversmiths of his day to be responsible for every stage of his work, from design to manufacture and then to meet and sell directly to the customers. In fact in his early days Graham would set his bench up and work in the gallery.

Sterling Silver Pendant on Neckbar by Graham Watling