The first of three entrance features was being put up at St George's Park this week.The hand-forged 4m tall structure shows aspects of Great Yarmouth's heritage.

The first of three entrance features was being put up at St George's Park this week.

The hand-forged 4m tall structure shows aspects of Great Yarmouth's heritage.

The initial designs for two of the arches were by Darren Barker the borough council's conservation officer, who trained as a sculptor.

All three have been crafted by Norfolk blacksmith artists including Nigel Barnett who, as chair of the British Artist Blacksmith's Association, has a national reputation.

Mr Barnett, from Fransham Forged used two of the initial designs creating his own interpretation. One is of ropes intertwined with herrings and star fishes, the other depicts mooring chains with seagulls perched on them. The seagulls are the work of acclaimed Norwich sculptor Ros Newman.

Master Blacksmith Bill Cordaroy, from East Ruston, used his own design of abstracted fishing nets and seaweed, reflecting styles from the nearby former art school.

“The park was a crossing point for two of the town's ropewalks,” explained Darren. “Ropes were made in extremely long lengths. These rope walks eventually became part of the town's road network and are an important clue to the towns maritime past”

The archways are the latest phase of the park's refurbishment which has seen it become a more open, safer and attractive space with new play equipment for children.

Funding for the project was from the Government's Cleaner, Safer, Greener initiative, part of its Safer Stronger Communities Fund (SSCF).

The first archway is being erected near the old art school. The second will be located opposite the St George's Chapel entrance, whilst the herring arch will be installed at the town centre entrance.

Decorative lighting has also been incorporated to provide night time illumination of the entrances

Work to install all three entrance features should be completed by the end of November.