"Puddling", the traditional, tedious and skilful process by which wrought iron is refined, had died everywhere in the world in 1973 apart from at Thomas Walmsley and Sons, Atlas Forge in Bridgeman Street, Bolton.
A BBC team went to televise the process, and this picture shows John Larsen, of Beech Croft Road, Bolton, who was one of only four men at the works (and so in the world) with the puddling knack.
He is seen stirring the molten pig iron to keep the temperature constant and separate impurities.
To view the photo, click HERE in our Looking Back Photogallery. The photo will open in a separate browser window. This screen will remain open at the same time.
If this action fails, log onto the Photogallery homepage at www.boltoneveningnews.co.uk/news/bygone/photos.html.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article