KEEN-EYED residents and visitors to Hilton may have noticed the shiny bright railings at the corner of Duck Street. Placed around where the stream runs under the road, they have replaced the sad and broken wooden fencing that had seen better days.
They were made and given
by local artist and ironworker Charles Tibbey, who grew up
in Hilton and returned to his parents’ home with his family almost 13 years ago. Several of his hand-wrought pieces can be seen around the village, including gates and cottage nameplates, and his balustrades, handrails and sculptures can be found across Dorset.

The railings were hand-made in steel, almost entirely using the traditional methods he has practised for 40 years. They have been galvanised to preserve the metal – hence the silver colour. Look out also for Charles’ signature stamp and tiny snake-like details which can best be picked out in the morning sun.
To ensure compliance with regulations, Charles liaised with the Highways Department which installed the railings. His design had the blessing of the parish council and is a nod to the style of estate railings seen all over Dorset, but with his own artistic twist.
Charles, who is now semi-retired, said: “I wanted to make something for Hilton, where the Tibbeys have lived since 1965. I saw that the fence was in dire need of replacement, and I was able to create something unique and lasting. This is a legacy – it will outlive me!”