A true blast from the past! We were recently gifted this incredible photo of Britain’s legendary steeplejack, Fred Dibnah, alongside our former demolition subcontractor and good friend, Alfie Parker.
The image dates back to 1992, when Fred was commissioned by Thomas Armstrong to demolish the iconic chimney at the former Millers shoe factory in Cockermouth - a structure that had dominated the town’s skyline for over 160 years.
Fred first spotted the chimney while working at nearby Jennings Brewery and famously said, “I’d like a crack at that.” His wish came true when his tender was accepted, and he brought the chimney down using his signature method: removing bricks at the base, inserting wooden supports, and lighting a controlled fire to bring it down safely.
This wasn’t just a demolition - it marked the end of an era. Miller’s Chimney was a beloved landmark, and its removal paved the way for new homes and businesses, transforming the site into what we see today.
Huge thanks to Stephen Smith (Senior Estimator at Thomas Armstrong Construction) for sharing this gem. It’s moments like these that remind us of the rich history behind our work and the people who helped shape it.
To see more photos and learn about the demolition, click here: https://cockermouthhistory.uk/mills-menu/derwent-mills-fred-dibnah-demolishes-chimney-1992/
