Woolpit self-taught carver Clint Rose to debut his new project at Bury St Edmunds venues

A self-taught carver is set to display his latest project at venues in Bury St Edmunds.

Clint Rose, who lives in Woolpit, will be carving St Edmund and the Wolf in front of audiences in celebration of the 1000th anniversary of the Abbey of St Edmund.

This will be his latest project exploring the rich history of the town and its namesake.

Mr Rose has completed other similar projects, including the Martyrdom of St Edmunds, and a woodcarving of the Abbey of St Edmund.

Both have been on exhibition at Moyse's Hall.

This time, however, he plans to donate the finished project St Edmunds Catholic Church.

During his sculpting, he will be accompanied by a Bury Tour Guide, who will provide input on the life of St Edmund and answer questions.

This will be the first time Clint carves to a live audience.

He typically showcases his projects on his YouTube and Instagram channels.

He said: “This time around, people who are visiting the town for their coffee will have a chance to see the process in person.

"I look forward to answering questions and breaking out of my online world comfort zone.

"I'm very grateful to those at the venues who are allowing me to do this and to Bury Tour Guides for their support."

Clint got into woodworking a little later in life.

He felt his career path was directionless after completing his A-levels.

Clint added: "After school, I became involved in landscaping and labouring within family businesses.

"I first discovered woodworking at 27, having never really tried it before. My first venture was to build an archway for a neighbour.

"I then upgraded to making small pieces, boxes, planters, shelves and the like due to limited space and tools."

Relying commissions and his own imagination, he eventually starting doing carvings that represent history and culture.

This brought him to the attention of Bury Tour Guides.

The tour will be based on the legend of St Edmund's life and hopes to engage the community with the rich history of the town.

Clint will carve at the following venues and dates:

• 10.30 am Sunday 2 October 2022 Market Cross Art Gallery

• 10.30 am Saturday 8 October 2022 Greene King Café
• 10.00 am Saturday 22 October The Guildhall
• 10am Saturday 12 November Tour Guide Hut in Abbey Gardens