What do you enjoy about your career?

Working with natural materials within a countryside, is the most fulfilling part of my career. When working with green wood you see the full transition of a tree turned into an item such as a chair, which is incredibly rewarding both practically and emotionally. Teaching my skills to others is also an absolute joy, it actually feeds my enthusiasm for what I do when I see a person whom has never worked with wood before come to grips with the tools and materials and create something of use or ecstatic beauty.

What do you need to know/do to become a professional and qualified waller?

There are some fantastic courses available to people who want to learn traditional woodland skills, many of which are affordable to most and are accessible to all. I began by volunteering for BTCV then went to university to study Art Therapy, of which enabled me to explore many art mediums. From this I found working with natural materials most suited to me, following Uni' I enrolled on a conservation course to learn more about our natural environment and most importantly to me, trees. I feel having a sound knowledge of the countryside is imperative to a craftsman within Green Wood Crafts, as natural habitats need protecting not destroying by somebody's lack of awareness. I would stress that it is vital for anyone entering into this type of trade to have a passion and love for the outdoors, nature and wood. Also be prepared to do many hours for little financial gain, although there is a huge amount of reward in the lifestyle you lead when working in the countryside.

What makes you successful at what you do?

For me to be successful at what I do it is important that I never stop learning from those I work with, nature and to be able to pass on skills I practice.

What advice or useful tips would you give to young people interested in becoming a waller?

If you want to become a green wood worker or work within the countryside crafts there are some great opportunities available to you. Charities such as REAP are one of many who strive to inform and teach young people about countryside crafts. There are also some great voluntary groups out there such as The British Trust of Conservation Volunteers, Ground Work, etc. Take advantage of these voluntary organisations as they are not only informative agencies to work with, but are fun to be involved with too. I found volunteering the best route into working within the countryside and even though it was a struggle financially it was all well worth it as I learned so much.