BENTLEY
Guest Speakers
Woodland Craft
Step into the shoes of woodsman Ben Law as he explores this diverse collection of crafts made from materials sourced directly from the woods. From making brooms, rakes, pegs, spoons, chairs, baskets, fencing and even yurts, the items are hewn and shaped by hand and infused with a simple, rustic beauty. With fascinating information on the history and traditions of the crafts, coppice management, tree species and the tools and devices used, we learn about all aspects of the lowimpact woodland way of life. The voices of contributing craftsmen who have shared their knowledge and skills are also included, bringing these crafts to life.
Signed copies of the book will be available at the Woodfair
Ben Law
Woodsman, craftsman, eco-builder, teacher and writer, lives and works in Prickly Nut Wood in West Sussex. The building of his unique woodland home was featured on Channel 4’s Grand Designs.
Ben will be sharing his experience and knowledge in a series of talks at this year's show. He will also be launching his latest book - Woodland Craft.
www.ben-law.co.uk
Chris Yarrow
Having spent 30 years as the owner and custodian of Wilderness wood, Hadlow Down, East Sussex, Chris Yarrow has now written a book about his experiences entitled 'Thrity Years in Wilderness Wood'. He will be on site on the Saturday and Sunday of the show, signing copies of his book
Thirty years in Wilderness Wood
Forester Chris Yarrow and his wife Anne dreamed of a countryside venture where they could be their own boss and create their own destiny. Thirty Years in Wilderness Wood tells the story of how they bought Wilderness Wood in Sussex and set about earning a living from just 63 acres, without compromising their darkest green credentials.
Using their professional backgrounds in forestry, countryside recreation and ecology, Chris and Anne transformed their nondescript palette of chestnut coppice and young plantations into a productive and award-winning example of multi-purpose forestry. As a commercial venture, the profitability of every activity was considered and Chris unashamedly makes his case for what he did and how he did it. He outlines the history and declining fortunes of lowland forestry, and shows how, in an era when so many lie neglected, their ancient wood was revitalised.
Thirty Years in Wilderness Wood is a thought-provoking read that challenges fashionable practices such as clearance of non-native trees. Written with a large dollop of self-deprecation, it is a down-to-earth account by professionals who have actually worked their land. Filled with hard-earned wisdom, this book will appeal to those who own a wood, or dream of ownership, as well as the general reader interested in the countryside, woodlands or forestry.
