A HAMPSHIRE countryside workshop will teach visitors a time-honoured farming skill.

The upcoming community craft session will include lessons in the historic art of scything by the esteemed expert, Chris Riley.

This hands-on event will be held at The Cabin at Harmony Woods from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, August 31, offering a unique and enriching experience in a natural setting.

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Chris Riley, a seasoned professional in nature conservation and traditional countryside crafts, will be leading the session. Raised in Lancashire and deeply connected to the West Country, Chris has dedicated his career to forestry, farming and conservation.

He has served as manager of the National Nature Reserve at Slapton Ley in South Devon and as reserves officer for the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, where he managed a diverse portfolio of habitats and engaged hundreds of volunteers.

Chris’s passion for scything grew through his work with hand tools and volunteers, and he is now an experienced scythes-man and trainer.

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As an active member of the Scythe Association of Britain and Ireland, Chris promotes the scythe as a sustainable, low-tech, and low-carbon alternative. His expertise extends to the film industry, where he has participated as a scything ‘extra’ in period films.

For more information about Chris Riley and his work, visit Pratensis Countryside Services.

Spaces for this unique workshop are limited to eight participants, ensuring a personalised and comprehensive learning experience. The cost is £45 per person, with an additional £5 for refreshments. If you would like a sneak preview of the action, read all about last year's course here.

To book a spot, email Joanna Oliver-Hawkins at joanna.oliver-hawkins@andovertrees.org.uk, including your name, the session date and the number of guests.