Going to the wall

1 March 2010

One of the Lake District’s most distinctive features will be explored when techniques dating back to Roman times are shared.

A two-day dry stone walling course will look at the traditional boundaries and share the skills of the ancient rural craft.

Like walls the length and breadth of the national park, the old structures around Whinlatter’s Masmill Oakwood have fallen victim to decades of wear and tear.

Community landscape programme Bassenthwaite Reflections is committed to restoring not just the oak woodland but the walls around it. Volunteers have already helped repair long lengths along Masmill Beck.

Leading the dry stone walling days on 12 and 13 March is Paul Brown, a Forestry Commission ranger, who explained why the renovation of such important landmarks is necessary.

He said: “Dry stone walls provide evidence of past land use, especially at Masmill, which used to be open farmland before the forest was established. As well as providing habitats for birds and insects, they contain fascinating clues about where the stones came from and why they were built.

“The problem is, it’s labour intensive, skilled work. There is a lack of competent dry stone wallers and costs are high. As there are no young walling apprentices to take over, the commitment of Bassenthwaite volunteers in mastering the techniques and turning out in all weathers is invaluable.

“Volunteers have a huge part to play in the future maintenance of a valuable part of the Lake District’s heritage. Walling brings back history, landscape, its culture and conservation.

“Heritage Lottery Fund supported Reflections encourages communities to protect Bassenthwaite Lake and its surroundings. This is a perfect example of how we can all work together on a project which will have benefit for many years to come.”

Anyone interested must be available for both days. Places are limited. Contact Reflections on 017687 74785 or 73204 to book.