In 1973 I joined Knebworth estate as a woodman, one of a team of five. Now there are no full-time foresters, only contractors. I still draw timber from the woods for estate work and some of my own projects. Most of my products are made from cleft timber, split along the grain as opposed to being sawn. I often say that I can make anything out of riven timber except a decent living.
I prefer to work in hardwoods such as oak and sweet chestnut and ash. There is no decent hazel coppice left here, but I do grow some willow that is suitable for woven work, hurdles etc. The majority of the underwood is hornbeam coppice, planted to supply London with charcoal.Contact me: wocko@wocko.com.
PRODUCTS INCLUDE:
RIVEN OAK LATHS used in the restoration of period buildings
RIVEN OAK SHINGLES and hand dressed OAK BEAMS
CLEFT SHEEP HURDLES and HORSE JUMPS either pegged or nailed made from SWEET CHESTNUT or ASH
My current passion is the manufacture of RUSTIC GATES. Each gate is individual making you the owner of a unique piece of garden furniture. Hand crafted in English hardwood to your own size and requirements. Click examples below to see a sample of my work:
I am also available for cleftwood working demonstrations and tuition. You may find me at County Agricultural Shows, Steam Rallies, Craft Shows and Wood Festivals: www.craft-shows.com.
