Setting the heritage work programme
The committee met in Barton-upon-Humber on 30 September 2026, according to Roofing Today. Members shared their experiences of heritage roofing and ideas for the NFRC’s work, rather than working through the committee’s usual agenda.
The discussion covered the current position of the heritage roofing sector. It was intended to help identify priorities, rather than present an agreed programme of work. Roofing Today did not set out the individual topics discussed or report any decisions.
Handmade clay tile production
After lunch, members toured the manufacturing works with Gabriel Nichols. William Blyth has made clay roof tiles by hand for more than 180 years, using clay from the Humber at Barton-upon-Humber and traditional production methods.
The visit included the listed drying shed and the listed coal-fired kiln. Members watched tiles being made and saw a chimney pot being thrown by hand, giving them a view of the skills and processes used to produce the roofing products.
Nichols, who explained the manufacturing work during the tour, has appeared on television programmes including The Great Pottery Throw Down, Handmade in Hull and Countryfile.
Further discussions and project reporting
Work has already started on the NFRC’s case study of Staick House. The project won both the heritage category and the project of the year award at the 2025 NFRC Roofing Awards. Publication is expected in the coming weeks.
The committee also plans to meet again in the coming weeks to continue its discussions. Members will receive further updates as the heritage work develops. The report did not give a date for that meeting or for publication of the case study.