Wood... It Were Good!

Over 2,500 visitors flocked to the National Forest Wood Fair at Beacon Hill Country Park in Leicestershire.

70 stands made for plenty of things to see and do, with demonstrations of everything from log-splitting to fine furniture. Visitors could have a go at tree climbing or get afloat in a coracle; they could try eco-art, see a pole lathe in action or simply admire beautiful woven willow creations.

The Wild Man of the Woods entertained captivated audiences with his stories about the country lore of the past and songs for the future urging us all to “keep it wild, keep it green!”

Stella Cornell of Chesterton Horse Loggers told those admiring Bruno, her Suffolk Punch horse, the history of this particular native breed. Bred to be the most efficient ‘workhorse’ on the farm, many went to the First World War, sadly not to return, and now the breed is nearing extinction with only around 300 left in the world. Bruno is kept well employed hauling timber in areas hard to reach with more modern forestry methods.

The machinery of the timber business was well represented with felling equipment, logging demonstrations and the opportunity to soar 15 metres high in a tree lift, more generally used for high level pruning and tree surgery.

When the crowds allowed them to get away from their own stands, stall holders made the most of the opportunity to see what other members of the forest fraternity had on offer. Angus Hancock of Cameron Forest and Garden said: “This is a brilliant networking event for the industry, and we were delighted to see so many people at the Wood Fair who could relate the activities and developments going on in The National Forest to the woodlands and countryside they see around them.” Diane Brown of The Potions Club ran out of her supplies of rosehip, blackcurrant and rowan syrups. “People use these syrups as drinks, preventative or curative medicines – or serve them with ice cream! Visitors to my stall could still sample the products, but we’d had such a tremendous rush that all I was left with to sell were two nettle tarts!” Lea Torp Nielson of Sheffield said: “The quality and array of stands was excellent. There really was something for everyone to enjoy if you’ve even half an interest in the countryside.”

Event partners Leicestershire County Council and the National Forest Company were both so delighted with this year’s Fair that a date has already been set for the 2007 National Forest Wood Fair: to be held at Beacon Hill Country Park, Bank Holiday Monday 27 August.