North West Norfolk MP James Wild has tried his hand at the art of bedmaking at Wolferton's Wrought Iron & Brass Bed Company. James met with Amanda Oldfield, at her family business, who have been making hand-made beds in North West Norfolk for over 18 years and now supply for John Lewis and hold the Royal Warrant.
Wrought Iron Brass & Bed Company is the first iron bed manufacturer in the UK to be carbon neutral, power their workshop with 100% renewable energy, and source bed slats only from FSC-certified companies. As well as being the only UK iron bed maker to be a member of the Made in Britain campaign.
During the visit, James participated in welding the iron used to make the beds and learned from the craftsmen the complex techniques that are used to ensure each bed will last a lifetime before knowing how each bed is bespoke and hand-made at the Wolferton site.
Amanda told James that nearly all their raw materials are sourced from right here in the UK, as close to their home in Norfolk as possible. Using local suppliers means they can visit their suppliers’ factories more easily and regularly, ensuring that the materials they use in each bed are up to the high standards they demand.
James was excited to hear about the innovative plans to manufacture bespoke pet beds and the company's ambition to enter the international market.
Commenting after the visit Amanda Oldfield said:
“We were delighted to receive Mr James Wild’s invitation and interest to visit our workshop to learn more about our family company. As a family company located in rural Norfolk, it was wonderful to receive the support of our new local MP, after the departure of Mr Henry Bellingham, and we look forward to getting to know Mr Wild more in future visits.”
Commenting after the visit James Wild MP said:
“The Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Company is a growing local business offering skilled opportunities for people. It was impressive to see the craftsmanship of the team producing these high quality, handmade British products in Norfolk which are in demand at home and internationally.”
