PRACTICE MEET, SCOUTHEAD FARM, MAY 2026
Practice Meet: 10th May 2026
Venue: Scouthead Farm, Scouthead
Conditions: A dry start to the morning, with showery outbursts in the afternoon.
An eager squad of twelve wallers arrived at our new site in Scouthead to begin the challenge of dismantling and rebuilding a stretch of around 100 metres of bowing field wall.
Our hosts, John, Nicola, and their sons, were on site to welcome us and help prepare the area. Nothing was too much trouble for them, and it was an absolute pleasure to work alongside such pleasant and appreciative people.
After some discussion among our branch members, the decision was made to dismantle approximately seven metres of wall, roughly halfway along the vast stretch. This was no ordinary field stone! The majority of the stones were far heftier than average, with many requiring a two-person lift. The size, quality, and regularity of the stone could only be described as “stone heaven”, with the added bonus of an ample supply of through stones.
By lunchtime, solid foundations were in place and the first lift was well underway. A few minutes before we stopped for lunch, the heavens opened and we all quickly headed for shelter. Lunch was enjoyed in the hosts’ barn, where we were thoroughly spoiled with the use of an electric kettle, mugs, milk, tea, coffee, and sugar. To top it all off, Paul Clayton treated us to his signature lemon drizzle cake. Many of us also enjoyed a second helping of Paul’s flapjack, which he had produced for our break at elevenses.
Building continued throughout the afternoon despite the unpredictable weather. The conditions did not deter the spirited gang. By the end of the day, the stretch was completed by placing the toppers at a sloping angle unique to the area. The rebuilt section stood proudly against the dilapidated existing wall. What a true difference a day makes!
The branch is excited about continuing this project and is already looking forward to the next adventure at Scouthead Farm.
We have been truly spoiled — good company, a stunning setting, scrumptious sweet treats, and amazing stone to work with. We cannot wait until our next visit to this venue. We are looking forward to continuing our work at Scouthead Farm and taking in more of the breath-taking views.
Furthermore, we have made links with Dawson’s Field, a small communal field next to our new site. Dawson’s Field is managed by the Scouthead and Austerlands Community Group and Saddleworth Parish Council. It is a thriving and well-respected community green space that is very popular with many of the local residents. One of our future projects will be to dismantle and rebuild a boundary wall on Dawson’s Field which needs a little TLC.
Bev Watson
