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 one of their approved practitioners and course instructors. I was recently feature in the Countryman Magazine (see photo) and topped my class in a renowned hand-tools only hedgelaying competition, see photo below. I'm also approved contractor with the National Hedgelaying Society and have recently passed a 10 day practical Cornish Hedging examination gaining a formal Lantra qualification.

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, Cornish Hedges and walls across the magical South West region.