CRAFT WITH HEART

We talk to a hedgelayer, a blacksmith and a beekeeper about their work as artisan craftsmen and the satisfaction it brings them

- Pat Crawford

Traditional crafts have been practised for hundreds of years and indeed were foundation on which many of today’s modern industries were built.

A few years’ back there were growing fears that the craft part of our heritage was in decline, but today we are witnessing greater appreciation of craftsmanship and a growing desire to get away from mass produced goods,

More people are taking leisuretype courses in order to learn the rudiments of various artisan skills. This, combined with a desire to reduce the use of man-made in favour of natural materials has further boosted demand for bespoke craft-made products.

THE HEDGELAYER

A trained classical singer who became a hedgelayer? It’s one big change of direction that resulted in a Kent resident pursuing a career and lifestyle he loves.

Michael White grew up near Cranbrook where his interest in the countryside began at a very early age but, after leaving school, his good singing voice and musical talents led him the Guildhall School of Music and Drama to train as a classical singer.

However, instead of following a full-time career in music, Michael found himself increasingly drawn to the countryside. He spent his weekends at Bore Place near Bough Beech learning hedgelaying techniques under trainer John Waller. It was the start of what Michael has now developed into a rural business offering a wide range of services.

Hedgelaying is the traditional form of hedge management. The technique returns overgrown, ‘leggy’ hedges to a manageable size and great condition. It can also be used to thicken newly established hedgerows.