'Dry Stone Walling - The Essential Guide' is a training DVD produced as part of the Upper Colne Valley Dry Stone Walling Project. It gives expert advice and instruction on basic dry stone walling techniques and highlights different styles of construction used around the country.
The DVD covers tools and equipment, health and safety and the building process, including how dry stone walls are dismantled and rebuilt and the preparation of foundations beforehand.
There are also a number of extras available on the DVD. One extra feature looks at how the Upper Colne Valley Dry Stone Walling Project (a partnership between Kirklees Culture and Leisure Services, the West Yorkshire Branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association and Huddersfield Geology Group) is trying to raise awareness of the need to conserve dry stone walls.
Another extra has Master craftsmen from regions as diverse as the Cotswolds, Wales, the Lake District and Scotland, describing regional styles and construction techniques. It also details how the Dry Stone Walling Association maintains and encourages the skills needed for the craft through education, training and practical projects.
The music for the DVD was composed specially by local composer Stephen Bradnum, and is performed by the Kirklees Youth Symphony Orchestra and the Colne Valley Male Voice Choir.
'Dry Stone Walling - The Essential Guide' is the definitive film guide to dry stone walling and will provide instructors nationally and internationally with an effective training tool. It was filmed on location in the Colne Valley and produced by Tigershark TV.
The DVD costs £12 and is available to buy from Kirklees Council e-shop here
