ONE of York's most famous craftsmen is downing tools after nearly 40 years in the city.

At the age of 70, famous wood and stone carver Dick Reid is hanging up his mallet and chisels at his workshop in Fishergate and calling it a day.

Wherever you look in York there are examples of Dick's handiwork to be found, including the coats of arms carved at both the Merchant Taylors' and Merchant Adventurers' Halls, and at King's Manor.

"The amazing thing is that in 1949, when I left school at 15, I was told I was going into a dying profession and there was no future in it," said Dick.

After leaving school, Dick served his time as apprentice in Newcastle under Ralph Hedley as an architectural wood and stone carver.

He went on to move to York, and taught at Manor School and then in Priory Street, setting up shop in a tiny third floor studio on Stonegate and beginning to lecture to local interest groups as a form of advertising.

In 1965, his workshop moved to Grape Lane, and a lifelong association began with the architect Francis Johnson.

This led to many restoration projects, including Heath Hall, at Wakefield, and Everingham Park, near Beverley.

In recent years he has been involved in making fine furniture for British embassies around the world.

After moving to Fishergate, Dick's workshop, with 12 staff, was one of the largest in England.

"I have been very lucky to have had an exciting challenge all my life, and the pleasure of meeting masses of interesting people and making friends out of many of them," said Dick.

His work has brought him into contact with monarchs and princes, with many of his most prestigious works being featured in their palaces.

After the fire at Windsor Castle he was appointed supervisor to the Royal Household for the restoration of the Carlton House Trophies, and for six years he worked on the large-scale restoration at Spencer House, in London.

In 1989, Prince Charles invited him to become a trustee of his Institute of Architecture, and he is now a trustee of the Prince's Craft School, as well as being master elect of the Art Workers' Guild in London.

In his retirement, Dick intends to spend time travelling with his wife Elizabeth, as well as making more time for his garden.

:: Roll of honour

Here are just a few of the famous buildings Dick has worked on;

Fairfax House, York

York Minster

Spencer House, London

The Savoy Theatre, London

Windsor Castle

Westminster Abbey

The Tower of London

The Royal Opera House

The National Museum of Wales, Cardiff

Updated: 10:19 Tuesday, November 02, 2004