A CORSHAM framer said he is “over the moon” to have become one of twelve people in the world to be internationally commended for his work in conservation framing.

Steve Hible, who owns Right Angle Picture Framing on the High Street, said he was delighted to find out that he had been awarded the Guild Commended Framer (Advanced) qualification by the Fine Art Trade Guild.

Mr Hible, 60 of the Broadmead estate in the town, has been a framer in Corsham for the last 35 years and he studied for six months to prepare for the exam which put his practical and theoretical knowledge to the test.

“You had to demonstrate that you can frame and handle work of a high value in a safe manner so that it is preserved and they test you in a number of ways,” he said.

“The Fine Art Trade Guild has a prestigious reputation and it was a bit nerve-racking as you had to put your work on display for someone to pick apart and criticise.

“I was really pleased to hear about the award and even though the qualification has been around since 2006, I can’t believe I am only one of 12 people in the world to be given the commendation.”

Mr Hible, who first got into framing after he graduated university in Exeter, said he hopes that the accolade will shine a light on his business – something which is growing in popularity.

“I hope it will reflect quite nicely on the shop because the way the framing business is going at the moment, is that people can go to any shop to buy a cheap frame. But if you want to frame something bespoke, something which is special to you then that is where we come in and that is growing more popular.”

Mr Hible added: “There are many reasons why I went for the award this year but mainly because the shop is doing more and more work for museums and conservators and by having this award it gives them the confidence that we can do it but it also gives me the confidence that what I am doing is right.

“It was also a challenge at my age and it showed that mature people can study and get their achievements.”

The qualification means that Mr Hible has shown he is able to handle and frame items of significant value and importance in ways that will preserve them for future generations which is the highest qualification in the framing industry.