Category Archives: Uncategorized

At last we have started to erect our enourmous poly tunnel. Lessons of the day. Always read the instruction before you start.Always read the next step before you start the first. Still, looking good.

Did you know that the UK is barbecue capital of Europe?Over 120 million barbecues every year! We import around 90% of the 60,000 tons of charcoal we cook our food on. Most of the imported charcoal comes from Namibia, where it is produced by workers in poor conditions, shipped over 5,000 miles across the Atlantic,Continue reading “Burning Issues”

The homestead is growing, and so are the pigs. Now in their 13th week and I am determined not to get attached to them, but after 3 weeks in the piggy heaven that has been made for them( in the prime spot in the wood), they are getting friendlier and friendlier. I suffer no illusions.Continue reading “Homesteading”

An Introduction to Coppice Crafts & Woodland Management 17 -21 September £400 This course is provides an introduction and insight to woodland management for the small woodland owner, or anyone interested in  making woodland products. Over the five days you will gain an introduction to: Coppicing Charcoal burning from start to finish using a ringContinue reading “Courses”

Another burn in preparation for the warm weather ahead. Hoping that everyone will be barbequing ( with our charcoal of course). It’s a long slog, from the cutting and splitting of the wood, loading the kiln and then attending the burn, watching the smoke, changing the chimneys round, blocking off, unblocking and then trying toContinue reading “Charcoal burn”

What’s that on the roof of our cabin? Solar panels.Tarrrahhh. Lights without a the thrumm thrummm of the generator chugging away in the background. No more reading by candle light, as romantic as it may sound. It takes me at least quarter of an hour each evening to light them all, then another to blowContinue reading “Power”

Here’s the poly tunnel arriving in a very big articulated lorry. Yes the tunnel is a that big! Respect to Mark the Kay’s driver for his skill at manoeuvring the article through our gateway(backwards) and up the track. He had a great attitude and was really helpful unloading. Next step, getting the bugger up!

Ready and packaged to be delivered, just in time for the first barbeque weekend of the year.

Really success charcoal burn despite the wind. Up until 4.00 a.m. to ensure a good burn and high quality charcoal.#janecrockett2