About Joseph

Having grown up in rural Lincolnshire, I've always been a countryman at heart. With many years spent in the city, this sense of belonging slowly faded away, until I decided to up sticks and turn a new page in South Devon. I haven't looked back since.

My journey into traditional countryside crafts began when I discovered the Devon Rural Skills Trust. I became a regular attendee on their Saturday courses learning the art of hedgelaying, restoring Devon Banks and dry stone walling amongst other skills. I felt instantly connected to the land once again and a true sense of purpose had been ignited in me. I was honoured to be selected to complete the organisation's distinguished training programme. It was during this period where I really learnt my trade, spending nearly two years under the wings of some of Devon's finest craftspeople. My grandfather also worked on the land for a living. He was a skilled Somerset based Hedgelayer and Woodsman (see photo). Keeping these skills alive in the family is an honour and a privilege.

Fast forward and I'm now a member of the Devon Rural Skills Trust's board of trustees and course instructors. I was recently feature in the Countryman Magazine (see photo) and in 2022 I topped my class in a renowned hand-tools only hedgelaying competition, see photo below. I'm also approved contractor with the National Hedgelaying Society.

I have converted a 1987 wooden horsebox into a fully off-grid home on wheels, called Sam Robin, which I live in with my wife Sian, a CBT and EMDR Therapist. Our wagon which is our pride and joy and has recently been published in a book "Camper Heaven". If the location allows, I'm able to stay on site until the project is complete. This means for much more efficient working.

I always strive to do the best job possible and look forward to building and restoring more of the wonderful hedges, Devon banks and walls across the magical South West region.