For over 40 years Bob Oakes (alias Fred Pope) has worked his magic with metal - crafting it into everything from classic architectural ironwork to contemporary sculpture.  Though his mother came from Devon and he was adopted to a family in Derbyshire and now resides near Welton, Lincolnshire.  His enduring passion and fascination for his craft have led him to inspire, teach and motivate apprentices so the skill of blacksmithing can be carried on for further generations.

The names of places and characters portrayed within this book have been changed however the content is based upon true happenings and events.  'Iron in the Blood' is a unique portrayal of the blacksmith's craft endeavouring to thrive as a successful business in this day and age, therefore providing invaluable advice to anyone who is considering making blacksmithing their hobby or career.  Hopefully you will find it to be a wonderful read, full of humorous anecdotes and social history.  The story also relates an incredible personal discovery which is intended to captivate, entertain and amaze!