opening fireplace - lintel question

[metasoma]

Hi

I'm in the process of opening up my fireplace to fit a log burner. The fireplace has been bricked up previously.

I haven't got very far but am yet to find a lintel. I've also noticed this upside down v formation of bricks. I'm guessing that these should be supported by the lintel. Therefore, if i remove the bricks dotted (see pic) and insert a lintel where shown will that be ok? do i need to support anything else. I'm worried the chimney might fall down.

Advice appreciated.

 

[kazuya]

that's ok what your doing, looks like that's where the old lintel was
buy a concrete one, theyre less than a tenner, make sure you pack above the lintel with slate.

 

[saladdays]

Lintel: http://www.wickes.co.uk/Wickes-Steel-Reinforced-Concrete-Lintel-100x65x1200mm-L03/p/220307

This is my effort: http://www.diynot.com/forums/your-projects/opening-up-a-fireplace-and-installing-a-stove.379469/

 

[metasoma]

Thanks. I've purchased the lintel and will remove the bricks this weekend