The towering 70-foot chimney that formed the centrepiece of famed steeplejack and steam enthusiast Fred Dibnah's backyard in Bolton has been put up for sale, offering enthusiasts a rare chance to own a piece of Britain's industrial legacy.
Located at Dibnah's former home on Radcliffe Road, the impressive brick structure stands as a testament to the broadcaster's passion for Victorian engineering and traditional craftsmanship. The chimney, which became a familiar sight to viewers of his popular television programmes, served as the operational heart of his authentic steam-powered workshop.
A Legacy Preserved in Brick and Mortar
Fred Dibnah, who passed away in 2004, became a national treasure through his BBC programmes that celebrated Britain's industrial heritage. His enthusiasm for steam engines and traditional methods of chimney demolition made him a household name throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
The current owners have maintained the chimney as a tribute to Dibnah's memory, keeping it in excellent condition despite the passing years. The structure represents one of the last remaining physical connections to the broadcaster's extraordinary life and work.
Unique Opportunity for Heritage Enthusiasts
This isn't just any chimney - it's a functional piece of history that could potentially be restored to full working order. The sale presents an unprecedented opportunity for steam enthusiasts, industrial heritage organisations, or dedicated fans of Dibnah's work to preserve this iconic structure.
Potential buyers should note that purchasing the chimney would involve either maintaining it on its current site or arranging for its careful dismantling and relocation - a process that would require specialist knowledge and appropriate permissions.
The chimney's location in Bolton places it at the heart of Britain's industrial north-west, making it particularly significant to those interested in preserving the region's manufacturing heritage.
More Than Just Bricks and Mortar
For many, this chimney represents the spirit of a man who dedicated his life to celebrating Britain's industrial achievements. Dibnah's down-to-earth personality and infectious enthusiasm for engineering history won him millions of admirers, making this structure something of a pilgrimage site for his followers.
As one of the last physical reminders of Fred Dibnah's extraordinary legacy, the chimney represents a unique piece of British cultural heritage that continues to inspire new generations of engineering and history enthusiasts.
