Beginners' Training Course in Dry Stone Walling at Blackruthven - 17th & 18th July, 2021

They came from far and wide to our first training course since the October, 2019:   from London to Aberdeen, Edinburgh to Orkney and a couple of places nearer to Perth.. Some had been waiting for a place since December of 2019 or early in 2020; illustrating that patience does eventually bear fruit.

Finding the stone proved tricky with some of it buried under a mound of earth. Martin had to spend some of his valuable instructor time playing ‘hunt the stone’.

Much thought was put into ensuring the safety of the trainees and the 6 participants were spread out along a 10 metre stretch of wall. A mother and daughter team were able to work together, while the others had the challenge of working on their own section. Under the instruction and guidance of Martin Tyler ably assisted by Chairwoman Kate Armstrong and committee member Trish Waite a fine section of wall was completed.

At last the site was cleared, the pins were set and work could begin. The sun shone all day and there was little shelter except in the nearby trees.

The day progresses. What lovely looking flat stone! Perfect for beginners.

Finished at last. Well done everyone. Do send us photos of what you do as a result of this course.