WORKSHOPS focusing on traditional skills will run this spring and summer as part of a social enterprise, supported by Lottery funding.

The Rewild Project runs Heritage Craft and Edible Forest workshops subsidised through the Heritage Lottery funded Foresters Forest programme, and it is encouraging people to revive traditional, land-based skills in the Forest of Dean.

Heritage Craft Skills workshops include green woodworking, woodland skills, textiles and natural dyeing, willow weaving, organic traditional tanning and blacksmithing.

Scott Baine from the Rewild Project said: “The workshops tap into the Forest’s rich rural heritage, and we hope they will preserve and revitalise ancient skills for new generations of people living locally.

“Edible forest skills workshops teach people how to manage traditional organic, perennial, edible food systems in back gardens, fields or community spaces. Workshops include designing edible spaces, pruning fruit trees and propagation, as well as fermenting and foraging.

“Many traditional skills are sadly in danger of being lost in our modern world, and we want to change that. The Forest is home to many old or neglected orchards, for example, but people can feel that they lack the skills or confidence to know what to do with them.

“It can be hugely rewarding to learn how to grow your own food, or make something practical and beautiful.

“We want to inspire people, bring them together and build confidence. Traditional skills and knowledge can make our communities stronger, healthier and more resilient. They are part of our heritage and belong to all of us.”

The Rewild Project has worked with the Forestry Commission so that courses can be run from a sustainably refurbished old forest workers’ shed, known as Kensley Shed in Cinderford.

A variety of experienced instructors will be teaching workshops throughout the spring and summer. 

To find out more about the Rewild Project or to book a workshop, visit www.therewild project.com

Heritage Craft Skills and Edible Forest are two of 38 projects in the Foresters’ Forest Heritage Lottery Funded programme.

Find out more at www.forestersforest.uk