Thousands sign petition to save Bristol Blue Glass
The studio on Bath Road is under threat of permanent closure
Thousands of people have added their name to a petition calling for the Bristol Blue Glass company to be saved.
The shop is facing imminent closure due the lease on its Bath Road premises not being renewed.
If the company fails to find a new home, it will have no choice but to shut up shop for good.
The iconic blue glass has a long history in the city, becoming world-famous in the 18th century.
In 1988, the current Bristol Blue Glass company was set up to preserve the traditional art form and continue the city's legacy.
"Bristol Blue Glass was founded by my husband, James Adlington, in 1988, with the vision of revitalising glassmaking in Bristol," said Managing Director, Suzanne Adlington.
"Over the years, we have built an international reputation for our distinctive glassware, all while navigating economic downturns, pandemics, and various challenges.
Our craft is unique, and we are passionate about preserving a traditional trade that is rapidly disappearing in today’s fast-paced, media-driven world."
Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Andrew Varney started a petition to raise awareness of the issue.
"When we think of Bristol, we think of Brunel, Banksy, Bridges, Balloons, and of course Bristol Blue Glass," said Councillor Varney.
"It's part of our culture, a part of our city, so we've got to do everything we possibly can to keep it."
General Manager and Hot Shop Manager, David Barry, said:
“I have been working for Bristol Blue Glass Ltd now for 16 years, I feel totally honoured and privileged to have spent my adult life so far, working for such a unique and wonderful company.
"To be able to come to work everyday and love your job is very rare, and I hate to think that my carrer as a professional glass blower may be forced to come to an end.
"I have spent thousands and thousands of hours perfecting these ancient skills, I live and breathe the material of molten glass.
"Training apprentices is very important to me, as I value greatly the opportunity to pass on this unique skill, and to keep the tradition of Bristol Glass alive."