Sheep Wool Landscape and Connectivity -

There are always sheep to be found… Skudde this time

September 18, 2018

We’re currently in Italy, and just happened to stumble across a sheepdog demonstration, as you do if you’re of a certain ‘bent’. The demonstration was part of a two day event in Siena, ‘Nella Vecchia Fattoria’ (In the Old Farm), held at the Fortezza Medicea. I tried my hand at something new for the blog, a video, well 2 actually. I think they give you a flavour of the demonstration as Patrick, the shepherd, talks … More There are always sheep to be found… Skudde this time

Stage 17 and the Museum of Pyrennean Pastoralism

July 25, 2018

Today Stage 17 of the the Tour de France will pass through some stunning mountain scenery and views as it passes Azet en route to St Lary Soulon. It will also pass the Maison Pyrénéenne Du Pastoralism. The house combines a museum /information centre and centre for the development of contemporary practice in pastoralism. It focusses not only on the Pyrenees, although this is a large part of the exhibitions, but also reflects on practice … More Stage 17 and the Museum of Pyrennean Pastoralism

The Grand Départ: An Assemblage

July 7, 2018

There are many reasons to be cynical about the Tour De France but despite that it continues to capture the imagination, or mine at least. Whilst much could be said about the history of the race, the nature of the endeavour, the competitors, teams, sponsors etc. the real attraction for me is the incredible landscape through which it passes. It’s a landscape that acts as a draw for cycling enthusiasts, the people who cycle for … More The Grand Départ: An Assemblage

Dorset Downs: Across the generations

October 12, 2016

To celebrate the diversity of British sheep breeds this Wool Week I want to turn to one of my favourites and a family revelation. I’ve always had a soft spot for Dorset Downs. They’re the sheep I associate with my childhood and who could not love that typically ‘teddy bear’ style Down with it’s distinctive brown face. But this weekend I found out our family has longer standing association with the Dorset Down. Whilst visiting my parents … More Dorset Downs: Across the generations

Waterfalling, every which way

September 23, 2015

The valley is quite unique. For a start it’s a very steep valley never wider than 500m across whilst in excess of 2000m at the sides. A glacial trough within a glacial cirque there is a fair bit of scree which may have many walkers, me included, wincing, but the glacial activity does mean that when you get up high you get a fair few surprises in the landscape. The main peak in the valley … More Waterfalling, every which way