Hurdle making is one of the oldest and most practical products of coppice crafts. Join arguably the best Hurdle maker in England who has spent his life making Hurdles amongst other coppice crafts and he manages one of the most impressive hazel coppices one has ever seen. Neil McLaughlin, has been managing coppice woodland for over 20 years and was fortunate to learn from many of the 'old boys' who coppiced the same woodland. His experience and commitment to the traditional methods has meant that his work is in great demand and as well as television appearances, he has had his work displayed at the RHS Chelsea Garden Show (silver award) and been commissioned for work at several large estates.
A master craftsman who is willing to show us how he does it on this weekend course. You will leave with your own 3ft hurdle which you will make.
Hurdle Making is a traditiotnal skill that is not only beautiful and practical, but that also has a very strong link with our rural heritage. For many years our woods have been in coppiced rotations to make products such as hurdles, thatchers spars and faggotts and thus has shaped the wooded landscapes we see today.
The workshop times
The workshop is open from 9am – 5pm,
For weekend courses we invite you to arrive the night before to settle in, have a group meal and get to know the space and as most people put it ' to relax'.
Where you will stay
Rustic reciprocal roof round houses - £45 for 2 or £30 for 1
Tents and Vans - Vans can be accommodated but please let us know the dimensions before you come.
Bringing your own tent is free and there is plenty of room for the bigger family tent.
Please note theat there will always be a host on site and you are more than welcome to come daily and not stay over if you would prefer. .
What about food?
The cooking is led by Geoff and Kate from Spinney Hollow during stool courses, though you are always more than welcome to help!!
This year we have included the food price in the whole cost so no kitty money is needed - but do bring any extras including alcohol as this is not provided.
Hot drinks are provided through out the week and there will always be fresh water on hand which is brought in daily.
What happens after a good days work?
In the camping area we have a large fire pit which is a great way to relax, in the past participants have brought instruments which are always a welcome addition!
There is a sheltered area used for cooking and eating with BBQ, sink, washing up area basket storage for food. All cutlery /pans/plates etc are provided.
What are the Hygiene facilities?
Hand washing
Water will be kept in the kitchen for washing up and hand washing
Toilet
We have a simple compost loo near the camping site which has instructions on the wall!
Shower
There is use of a hanging solar shower and wash bowl by the toilet to wash with. Just ask and we will set it up for you. There is no bath unfortunately but we hope to have a bush bath very soon!
Who can I Bring?
You are welcome to bring children and dogs but please let us know before hand if you intend to do so, You must bring a supporting adult to look after a child. They are welcome at no extra cost , but if they are eating with us we would ask them to contribute to food - ( which would estimate at £20)
How do I book and Pay ?
Please e-mail Kate@spinneyhollow.co.uk ro request a booking form, we will then ask you to send it back with your deposit and then you have up to two weeks before the course starts to pay the difference.