The chimneys were swept last week by an approved contractor as part of the standard maintenance routine. The sweep reported that the lounge stove was in a very poor condition, so much so that he issued a warning notice about it. The stove has been removed from the flue and I will be collecting it in the next few days.
Obviously, it and the hearth should not be used – there is a notice from the sweep fixed to the stove.
In the meantime, if you want to use the lounge but are feeling cold in there, do as we do ‘oop North and put another jumper on! The dining room stove is working fine.
I’ll update you when the damage to the stove has been assessed. It may be capable of repair. If not, a replacement will be sought.
