Post World War II there were two principal colour hardeners to the Birmingham trade, Billy Woodward and the Century Polishing & Hardening Co. Woodward trained Ray St. Ledger, father of Richard, who continues to run the firm on Price Street in the Birmingham Gun Quarter. They carry out traditional colour-case hardening work for many British gunmakers, as well as some European ones too. They are acknowledged as the finest in the world for this work.

There is a sad story attached to Ray’s passing. See http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/fears-missing-hodge-hill-pensioner-7923887

and

http://www.itv.com/news/central/update/2...gham-pensioner/

May he rest in peace, with our thanks for his life, his skill and his craftsmanship.

Tim