It’s a long time since we have run a Taster Day, but this year instead of a 5th training course we decided to hold one. Trish found the perfect venue at Little Trochry farm, near Dunkeld where there are lots of walls in need to repair. The owners, Iain and Kirstin, run a sustainable and environmentally friendly farm. They grow all their own vegetables organically and sell their crop to the local community. They are also keen to develop an event’s venue, so hosting a dry stone walling day was an ideal way for them to get some dry stone work completed in exchange for their excellent hospitality.
Eleven people signed up for the day and Jim Grant, one of our most experienced professional dykers, agreed to instruct. It was a large group of enthusiasts for Jim to keep an eye on, but as always he kept the group on track, stopping them as they moved through the different stages of wall building, to explain a few main pointers. Trish W and Doug C helped to support the group, so good progress was made.
In fact to my surprise a short section of the wall was completed to cope height, so that Jim could explain and involve the group in the final process.
The walling was enhanced by the excellent catering provided by Iain and Kirstin. We were all able to sit down at a long table for morning coffee and wonderful flapjacks. At lunch time a substantial veggie soup, home made bread, hummous and cheese was on offer – and of course more flapjacks. All vegetarian and gluten free.
About 50% of the group had come from the local area and had heard about the day via local newsletters/magazines. Others came from further afield – from Caithness to Cambridge as well as Inverurie, Glasgow and Paisley.
Everyone was so enthusiastic about the day and some said they would be signing up for a Beginners’ course either this year or next.
And finally a few quotes from the group:
I had a great time and really enjoyed learning about Walling, so thanks to all involved...I'd like to apply for a place on the 2 Day Introductory Course on the 26/27th July. If there are any other opportunities come up before then I would be keen to be involved and I'd appreciate it if you could bear me in mind.
Thanks for a very enjoyable day, please pass on my thanks also to Jim and Doug for their expertise, also to Ian and Kirstin for an excellent venue and great catering. I will hopefully get on a two day course next year!
I just wanted to say thank you for the day up at Little Trochry yesterday. We both found the dry stone wall taster day really well run and enjoyable. Also appreciated the lovely welcome from Kirstin and Iain - it was great to see the inspiring set-up there. Thanks again.
Members’ Section
I mustn’t forget the new field entrance, which Gregor, with the help of, mainly, Iain built. The cheekend created gave the Tasters a chance to see a wonderful example of this feature.
