Coronavirus lockdown proves no barrier for Gestingthorpe welder's sculpture business

A welder from Gestingthorpe has not let the coronavirus lockdown stop him from completing his creative projects.

Billy Moulton-Day has continued operating his business, Rusty Creations UK, which sees him craft original sculptures and metalwork items from horseshoes.

His latest project – a border collie and retriever mix – took around 180 hours to complete after being commissioned by a friend.

Reflecting on the finished design, Mr Moulton-Day said: “I don’t think I have ever seen a horseshoe sculpture like it.”

The former brickmaker was inspired to establish his own business in 2018 after gaining skills in welding and metal fabricating.

“It was a big career change,” said Mr Moulton-Day, who recalls developing a fascination for the craft as a young boy while watching his grandfather at work as an engineer and mechanic.

Operating his own business has enabled the 29-year-old to develop a creative flair alongside his full-time job at an automotive engineering company.

“Everything comes out of my head,” he said.

After spending countless hours on a project, he is always delighted to receive positive feedback.

“The best thing about this job is seeing people’s reactions and seeing a smile on their face,” said the keen cricketer, who admits to often growing attached to his work due to the number of hours involved.

“It’s like a whirlwind of emotion,” said Mr Moulton-Day, of Sudbury Road. “First you hate it because nothing will work, and then you suddenly fall in love with it.”

His commissioned projects are often priced in relation to the level of work needed, while smaller items, such as wine racks, can sell for between £25 and £100.

A sculpture of a man fishing is among the projects he is currently focusing on. The fish will be created out of horseshoes, while the man will be crafted from old cogs and bolts.

“It’s something completely different,” he added. “I can see in my mind how I want it to look.”