Steel supports Mauritian church

REIDsteel and Wessex Galvanizing have teamed up to create a lasting legacy for a place of religious importance in Mauritius.

The work involved REIDsteel fabricating a two metre high religious cross and lantern that was installed at the shrine of French Catholic Priest and Missionary, Jacques-Désiré Laval (known as Père Laval).

Prior to the steelwork being transported to the Indian Ocean island, Wessex Galvanizing were contracted to hot-dip galvanize the cross and lantern.

REIDsteel Production and Quality Manager Andy Davies said: “We have designed, fabricated and shipped many steel structures in Mauritius so were pleased to be asked to design and supply the new features for the shrine dedicated to Père Laval.

“We’re proud to be part of a national monument which is set to be visited by millions of pilgrims in the years to come. In Mauritius, you are never far from the coast so galvanizing was the natural choice, it requires little maintenance and it’s protected from all the elements.”

Wessex Galvanizing Sales Manager Richard Whiddett, said: “It was great to partner with REIDsteel once more and a real privilege to play a role in such an important structure for the people of Mauritius and those who visit each year. The project was quite different to our usual work, and really demonstrates the diversity of galvanizing as a finish.”

The project was commissioned by the Society of the Holy Spirit and The Sacred Heart of Mary.

Père Laval is recognised as a champion of the poor and ill in Mauritius, and on his death in 1864 his grave at the Sainte Croix Church became a place of pilgrimage, with many people from around the world still making the journey every year on the anniversary of his death.