The delicate work of conservation at the world-famous Victoria & Albert Museum in London is benefiting from the skills of Gloucestershire training company C&G Services.

The V & A has brought the Stonehouse-based company in to train its expert conservation staff in the woodworking and metalworking skills they need to repair and restore valuable old furniture and other artefacts.

The conservationists are also being shown how to pass on their new skills to colleagues, so the museum does not have rely on outside trainers.

"The conservation team have academic backgrounds and needed to acquire more practical skills to carry out many aspects of their work" said trainer Phil Cartwright, who has been leading the training programme with Roger Simpkins.  "They asked us if we could help.  

"We have shown them how to get the best  from machinery such as circular and cross-cut saws, routers, planers and sanders.  On the metalwork side we have also helped them with brazing, welding, hot-wire bending and forming.  We've so far trained around 30 people."

The pair have also advised the museum on how to select the best cutting and welding equipment.  

"We're very pleased to have been able to make a contribution to the important work of the museum" said Managing Director Bob Oldmeadow. "It's gratifying that our training skills have been recognised by such an important institution."