A series of limited edition silver plated candle sticks have been unveiled at the National Memorial Arboretum, in Staffordshire. Each of the twelve candlesticks available is named after one of the apostles and is modelled on the pair of altar candlesticks located in the Arboretum’s Millennium Chapel, created by Robert Pritchard-Gordon, a Birmingham silversmith using Arthur Price knives
The candlesticks comprise of knives arranged in a circular formation, bound in place by a circle of barbed wire, providing a reminder that people still starve because of war and imprisonment. The knives used to create the original altar candlesticks have been discontinued, however the design has been recreated for this unique set of twelve candlesticks.
Simon Price, CEO of Arthur Price and great grandson of the company’s founder approached the Arboretum to suggest the creation of these limited edition items. His father and grandfather both served in the Army and during both world wars the factory ceased cutlery production and supported the war effort manufacturing munitions.
On Monday 25 June, Simon Price, CEO of Arthur Price visited the National Memorial Arboretum to sign the certificates that will accompany the candlesticks. He and Sarah Montgomery, Managing Director of the National Memorial Arboretum signed the certificates during a small ceremony with Ian Dudson HM Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire.
The limited edition candlesticks are available for sale in the National Memorial Arboretum gift shop for £395 and are accompanied by a signed certificate.
Graeme Williamson, Head of Fundraising, National Memorial Arboretum, said: “We are always seeking to develop new partnerships with businesses and were delighted when Simon approached us to suggest this fantastic initiative. The commemorative candlesticks crafted by the skilled silversmiths at Arthur Price will serve as a treasured memento for visitors and provides financial support to the Arboretum, ensuring we can remain a free to enter site.”
Simon Price, Chief Executive Officer, Arthur Price, said: “The National Memorial Arboretum is wonderful, you can’t not be moved or indeed inspired by the venue, the volunteers and the brave men and women it represents. I’m extremely proud, both personally and professionally, to be associated with the venue and creating these limited edition pieces and I hope these special candelabras will be a lasting memento of people’s visit to this special place.”
Pictured above left to right: Ian Dudson (Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire), Sarah Montgomery (Managing Director of the National Memorial Arboretum) and Simon Price (CEO of Arthur Price)
The commemorative candlesticks are on sale for £395