Podcast appearances and mentions of River Severn

Reminding You Why You Love Football - The MUNDIAL Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2024 12:13

There's a row about a new Land Management Group for Dartmoor. There's been a lot of controversy about the state of the environment and grazing sheep there. The new group's been set up to bring together farmers, commoners and environmental groups to sort out the problems. The government's appointed Phil Stocker as the independent chair, but conservationists say he shouldn't have been given the job as he's also CEO of the National Sheep Association. We speak to Dartmoor Nature Alliance about their concerns. We ask Phil Stocker about his new role, and also about the state of sheep farming in the UK. Farmers in North Somerset say plans to create saltmarshes to offset the environmental impact of a new power station would be disastrous for their homes and livelihoods. Energy giant EDF is building a nuclear power plant - Hinkley Point C - on the Bristol Channel. To offset the number of fish that'll be killed when it's up and running, EDF is looking to create saltmarshes along the River Severn. It needs more than 800 acres and is considering the compulsory purchase of agricultural land.Presenter = Caz Graham Producer = Rebecca Rooney

ceo uk energy farmers sheep edf land use dartmoor new chair saltmarsh river severn bristol channel north somerset

FS 72 Working as an Internal Facilitator with Cath Brooks from the Environment Agency

Facilitation Stories

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2024 34:55

In this episode Helene talks to Cath about her role as Senior Engagement Advisor and internal facilitator with the Environment Agency (EA) Cath tells Helene a bit about the EA and the type of work they do. She explains how her role as Engagement Advisor includes facilitation and also how she works an an independent internal facilitator for other projects withing the EA. Cath gives some examples of what she really enjoys about her role as a faciliator including working with the public on a climate adaptation project and working alongside external independent facilitators that the EA also use. She explains that external faciliatators are often used when more complex conversations need to be had, or where there has been a breakdown of trust and someone independent is needed. She shares some insights as to how the internal facilitators network of aroudn 200 facilitators was set up and how she balances her work as Senior Engagement Advisor and facilitator. She tells Helene about a role play technique that really made a difference and about how asking good questions are crucial to her work as a faciliator. Cath also talks about how she keeps her faciliation skills up including attending the IAF England and Wales conferences, and local IAF meetups and EA facilitator learning days. She also shares some advice for other internal facilitators. A full transcript is below. Today's Guest Environment Agency - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) facilitationnetworkmailbox@environment-agency.gov.uk To find out more about Facilitation Stories and the IAF and the England and Wales Chapter Facilitation Stories website: https://facilitationstories.libsyn.com/ And to email us: podcast@iaf-englandwales.org IAF England and Wales: https://www.iaf-world.org/site/chapters/england-wales The Facilitation Stories Team Helene Jewell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenejewell/ Nikki Wilson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolawilson2/ Transcript H.J Hello and welcome to Facilitation Stories, the community podcast of the England and Wales chapter of the International Association of Facilitators, also known as IAF. My name is Helen Jewell, and my guest today is Cath Brooks, senior engagement advisor with the Environment Agency. Welcome, Cath C.B Hi, yeah. Hi. How are you doing? Alright? H.J I'm good. How are you? C.B Yeah, good. Thank you. Yeah, thanks for inviting me. I'm Looking forward to it. H.J It's really good to have you on the podcast. Okay, so I have a whole load of questions to ask you, starting with the Environment Agency. I just wondered if you could tell us a little bit more about what the Environment Agency does and what your role is? C.B Yeah, for sure. So yeah, I hope that it'll inspire people. I've worked at the Environment Agency for almost 20 years, and I still absolutely love it. It's a great organisation. So we're a public sector organisation, and we aim, quite simply, to protect and improve the environment. We employ about 12,000 people, and some people work nationally across England, and then some people work in area offices. We've got 14 different area offices across England, so you either work on national issues or you work on local issues in one of our area offices. And I guess to create places for people and wildlife, we work on quite a lot of topics that people are deeply concerned about, and finding ways forward can be difficult on some of the issues, people have strong opinions about the environment and how we should be managing the environment quite rightly. So Facilitation skills are really important in that context, with some of the really difficult issues that we're managing. So some of those topics are things like managing major industry, making sure they're not polluting the environment, and waste, dealing with contaminated land, making sure water quality of our rivers and we've got enough water so water resources as well, working on fisheries, conservation and ecology, and my area that I work on is management of flood risk. So those sorts of issues are really interesting, and people have strong opinions about how we should be managing those issues. So there can be quite a lot of conflict, I guess, which is why facilitation is so important. H.J And so then, obviously that's quite a broad even under the umbrella of the environment, that's quite a broad range of different areas, and in your particular area then, in your role as senior engagement advisor, what does that actually involve? Sort of before, obviously, I guess facilitation is part of that, but I know you also do it sort of separately as well. What does your main role? What does your main role involve? C.B Yeah, so we've got engagement advisors. Obviously, the organisation's quite technical organisation, quite science and engineering led, but we also have engagement and communications experts within the Environment Agency, and I'm one of those. So I work alongside quite technical teams, and at the moment I'm working, I've worked in lots of different parts of the organisation, but at the moment I'm working in flood risk management, supporting our teams. I work nationally, and so supporting our national teams with big projects where there's, they're difficult topics, where people have strong opinions. And my job, my main job, is engagement planning. So we're whatever the project is thinking about what are our engagement aims? Why do we want to work with our stakeholders? Why do they want to work with us, making sure we're not just thinking from the perspective of the Environment Agency, my job is to help our staff to think about the impact it's going to have on on a range of stakeholders, and plan the best methods that we can for that particular project to work out, how can we get the best from our stakeholders? How can they get the best of us? How can we find solutions that work for all of us, not just for the Environment Agency? So we try to avoid taking what we've called in the past the ‘decide, announce, defend approach'. My job is to help staff to be more, to sort of take a more ‘engage, deliberate, decide', so to help have quality conversations about these difficult issues, really listen to our stakeholders, designing the right methods, really to help create that space for those quality conversations about what can be really difficult issues. And that's my job, is designing those sorts of engagement methods, if you like, and then facilitation sits really nicely alongside that. H.J And so when you do that facilitation, I as far as I understand, you're part of an internal facilitators network. How, how did that kind of come about? When was that set up? C.B Yeah, that's right. So when I joined the Environment Agency, back in 1996 we didn't have many people who worked in engagement roles or facilitation network. So we started really by setting up the engagement roles and setting up training for staff around comms and engagement and how to do that engagement planning like I've just talked about. And very quickly we realised actually there's another set of skills that that we need to develop as well, which is facilitation. So when you are designing methods that involve dialog, you know having facilitation skills, having skills to be able to design those interactive sessions in a way that you're making the most of that time when you've got your stakeholders in the room is really important. And it's quite a different skill, actually, than just engagement planning, being able to design a face to face or an online session where you've got people in the room making the very best of that time. So we're all really busy. Our staff are busy, our stakeholders are busy. So making the most of those opportunities, that's why we developed the facilitation skills courses. So first of all, we started off by getting some expert engagement professionals in to help us design facilitation courses that were for in-house facilitators. And then very quickly, and within about 18 months, we realised that people were going on the training, really enjoying the training, but then struggling to apply the training in their day jobs, because, you know, you could go a couple of months and not use it. And we very quickly realised that if you're going to facilitate, and you have to do it quickly, you have to do it very often, and you need, you need to support each other. So we set the network up to give people safe space to be able to facilitate internally. So to develop people's skills and create opportunities to be able to facilitate not in your day job. So that's why the network was set up, was to, so people could put forward a facilitation request and get someone who wasn't their day job, they went and practised their skill outside their day job, which, which means you can facilitate in a more pure way which was, which has been fantastic. It's, it's worked really well. H.J And I want to ask a little bit more about that, actually. But before I do, I just wanted to pick up on the differences between engagement and facilitation, and where you see the differences being? C.B yeah, I do think they're quite different skills. So I think being able to do good engagement planning across a project, you think we've got big projects that might go on for years, and they're quite technical. You need to understand the, you know, the technical context of that bit of work, what the business objectives are, what the engagement objectives are, what best methods we can apply, you know, to help people to engage with us, and for that to have an impact on on the decision making, that's quite different. You could do that, and then you can realise in that process, there's usually going to have to be some kind of series of face to face events. But the person doing that engagement planning might not necessarily have this skill to be able to run that face to face content, and sometimes actually, we do need a completely independent facilitator. So there might be a topic where we might have lost trust with some of our stakeholders, where it's not appropriate for the Environment Agency to facilitate those conversations and we do need an independent facilitator. And that is whether it's an in-house facilitator and an independent facilitator, being able to design that's more in depth, designing how to make the most of the conversation, how to create a space where people feel safe, to be able to air their concerns and feel listened to. I guess it's like engagement planning, but it's really specifically thinking about that particular conversation and what you want to get out of that conversation. So it's micro design, I guess, within a particular moment in time, and you might use that facilitator, or you might use a facilitator that then exits the process, whereas the engagement person stays throughout and they use the results of that conversation, and they kind of have to carry on, whereas a facilitator might just come in for that particular moment, then they might not be involved again. So they are quite different skills. H.J And so what determines how you choose a particular facilitator, be it an in-house one or an external facilitator. How does that process work? C.B Yeah, so we'd use an in-house facilitator for a process where, so quite often the engagement person needs to be, needs to participate in the conversation. And if the engagement person involved in that bit of work needs to be involved in the conversation, then they'd use an in-house facilitator to help make sure that, you know, they just come in, offer the service, create the space so that everyone in the team can participate. And often there's other people outside the team, you know, other stakeholders and things. And if the topic is not too controversial, it's all to do with positionality and trust and the way the Environment Agency is viewed. If there's good trust and good relationships between all the people, then an in-house facilitator can do that role. When I'm doing that, I upfront say, I work for the Environment Agency, but I'm not here today as someone who works in the Environment Agency, I'm here to facilitate and make sure you're heard. I'd work with all the different stakeholders before to make sure that the design was taken their, you know, that their needs into account. I wouldn't just turn up on the day, so do all the things that an independent facilitator. Obviously, we're a public sector organisation, so it has to make the most out of me as a facilitator and engagement expert. So I try and do that as much as possible. I'd only use an independent facilitator, which obviously costs us money as an organisation. We'd only do that in a situation where we genuinely needed that independence, and lots of reasons for that, but normally it's to do with trust and transparency and making sure that, you know, there might be awkward situations where things might have gone wrong in the past, and stakeholders would feel more comfortable if someone independent is facilitating, even just for a small period of time, just to help us through that. H.J And how many facilitators have you got as part of your network then? C.B Yeah, I knew you were going to ask, I think there's about 200 at the moment on the facilitation network. H.J Wow. Okay, and how do you manage that kind of balance of work in your, let's say, day job, versus facilitating for a different, a different project that you're not part of then? C.B Yeah so for me, I mean, we all do it differently. So we're allowed 11 development days a year. And so I use those Development Days aren't just, you just, don't just go on training courses and things. I use my Development Days to do independent facilitation for other people within the environment agency. So each quarter I have a maybe do one event per quarter for someone else, if it's a chunky event, because you need to do the planning for them, you need to facilitate and then help them with the results. So I think we all do that. We view it as part of our development, and we, you know, discuss it with our line managers and carve out time to go and do it. It's completely up to each individual facilitator to decide, and we have peaks and troughs in our work. If you're working on a project that had a lot of facilitation within that project, then you might not do any facilitation for anyone else in that quarter. But yeah, generally, people use their development time. H.J Okay. And what kind of facilitation do you particularly enjoy? C.B My favourite thing I've done in the last 12 months was when we were at the River Severn, when we did, when I have opportunities to facilitate with members of the public who are not part of the Environment Agency. And I was really fortunate, we were sort of testing a new methodology on the River Severn about adaptation pathways, they're called, so thinking about climate change and the impact of climate change, and we did something called Community panels, where we got members of the community. So an independent facilitator designed the process and needed some sort of support facilitators, and I acted as a support facilitator, and that was really, really fun. It's just a real privilege to be able to hear from members of the public who don't know anything about what the Environment Agency does, and yeah, to help them to have conversations about the environment and flood risk management, and their ideas were absolutely brilliant and really refreshing to hear. And that was, that was great, because most of my work is either internal or with partners that know the Environment Agency well. So that was something that was different for me and really stretched me as a facilitator, bringing together people that didn't know each other. We were doing it online, and, you know, I didn't know them, and it was, yeah, it was helping them to feel relaxed very quickly and heard, that was, that was really good. It was good for me as a facilitator. Good stretch. H.J Nice and how often, I guess, do you get to do something a little bit stretchy? Let's say that you actually learn from rather than, let's say a bit more day to day type stuff? C.B Probably only a couple of times a year, because it did take up quite a lot of time. It was four evenings and a whole day on a Saturday. So that's quite unique. But again, very much supported by the organisation, and was viewed as part of my development. And it was, it was a brilliant part of my development. It really blew the cobwebs off in terms of my facilitation skills. Took me out of my comfort zone, and it was really good. And I guess it would be easy not to do things like that, and it would be, you know, easier just to kind of do the day job. But where's the fun in that? You know, it really, it really helped me, and I took a lot from it back to the day job, and it reminded me about the importance of making sure people are comfortable and active listening. And it was good for me to hear how people view the Environment Agency, who don't know much about what we do. And so, you know, they came up with these brilliant ideas. Like, as an engagement person, I was able to come back in and sort of talk to people about so. But realistically, yeah, time wise, probably once or twice a year. H.J And how easy is it for you then to kind of just thinking about that there's different hats that you wear. How easy is it to be sort of, you know, independent facilitator versus engagement professional, and, you know, to kind of remember which hat you're wearing, I guess? C.B Yeah, it can be hard. I think when you're, we get quite embedded in the projects that we're working on. So I'm working on one really big project at the moment, and, you know, you have weekly calls within the technical team, and you become part of that technical team, and that's where it becomes hard to add value I think. When you're fresh and you go into a team, that's when you know you can sort of challenge in a really constructive way. So I think we just, yeah, I just I do, I need to have reflective conversations with people on a regular basis. So my manager is brilliant for that. She's quite sharp, she's really useful for me and sort of challenging me and making sure that I am still doing the job and not sort of just blending into that technical team.Because facilitators and consultants, the benefit of using independent facilitators is that they challenge on our cultural assumptions, and we have got a lot of cultural assumptions, and we do make a lot of decisions, which means that we probably sometimes can push engagement down the track a bit further than we should. So yeah, so that's it's difficult, but yeah, using, using my manager and and also independent facilitators, that's where they can really add value. I think when we're using them on projects, it's really having really useful conversations with independent facilitators about what I'm working on, and they can give really good advice and just keep you remembering about how to challenge teams in a constructive way. But it is quite tiring. I'm not part of that team. I am there to challenge constructively, and it, yeah, can be tiring, but it's, you do get a lot of rewards as well from it, but you're not part of that team. And that's, I guess that's a bit like what it's like as a consultant, is that you're not, you're not fully part of that team. You're there to kind of help them as a team, to work well together, but not necessarily be embedded within that team. H.J Which definitely has its pros and cons. So thinking about then, the kind of the learning, the development, the support that you have to work as a facilitator, what kind of opportunities? I know you said you have your development days, and that you use those to do facilitation. But what else are you able to do to kind of keep your skills up and to learn more? C.B So we get together as a network, so we have network learning days. So we've got one next Monday, so we run those about every six months where we get the whole network together face to face. We have network days more locally, like we, me and you run one in Bristol, which is really good. And the thing I love about the Bristol one that we do with the International Association of Facilitators is it's so refreshing for the Environment Agency, half the people that come are from the Environment Agency, and half the people that come are just independent facilitators doing all sorts of facilitation across all sorts of sectors, charity sectors, you know, finance sectors all around the world. You know, some of them work in Africa and all sorts of different places. And it's really exciting meeting, and really, really good for us to to be challenged and meet people that are doing facilitation in other places, and they you know that those days are brilliant, and although only a couple of hours, probably learn more in a couple of hours than you could learn, you know, in a whole day online and things and just little conversations and testimonials and, you know, different methods that people are testing out and what's gone wrong and what's worked well. That works really well. And the two day conference that the IAF run in April. So I went to the, I went to that for the first time two years ago, and I went last year as well. And then every year I'm bringing more and more people from the Environment Agency, because that's when I learn the most in the year is just immersing yourself in two days of just learning sessions and being exposed to people that are facilitating in really different contexts. But there's so much that we can learn from each other. So yeah, and just techniques that you just wouldn't even dream of, I just techniques that I wouldn't even dream of, you know, like last time I went, there was an amazing session about using your body and not talking, but just how you can just facilitate using movement and using your body and help with conflict resolution and different difficult conversations with people just using your body. It sounds really strange, but it was really amazing. It's really interesting. H.J I guess it's the same for for any of us that facilitate, we tend to do our particular thing, or even if you're an external independent facilitator, and even if you work across different sectors, you can get a little bit stuck in your own, you know, you have your preferred tools and techniques, and you use them again and again. And so any of those kind of days, you know, for me, definitely I learned so much and been to so many sessions where I think, oh, yeah, that's a thing, I've never thought about doing that. So it's definitely not just internal facilitators that have that, because I think the rest of us do as well. C.B Yeah, yeah, it's great, isn't it? It's amazing. Yeah. H.J It's really nice, the Bristol meetups you mentioned, I think that is a really nice mix of, I think it's about 50-50 split, internal and external. And I'm always amazed myself at the breadth of different types of facilitation, and the more you, you know, you talk about facilitation and what you can facilitate, you know, it's actually quite a huge array. The edges are very fuzzy, but it's really nice to see all those different methods and different conversations that we have together. C.B Yeah, yeah, it's amazing. H.J So thinking about the actual tools and techniques and all that kind of stuff, what's the one thing that you really, really love? I know you've talked about working with the public, what's the one methodology, perhaps, or tool that you really love using? Is there one or a few? Perhaps? C.B So I worked on a research project called ‘adapting to a changing climate flooding coast'. It's like in difficult situations where flood defence is not the answer for lots of different reasons, but there's not a straightforward, this is how we're going to manage the problem. It was a really good opportunity to take ourselves out of our comfort zones and think, what methods within, with these communities could work? Because we've not got all the answers, actually. And so we developed some more conversation based techniques. And so we did role play simulation. I think when people say role play, everybody's like, Oh, but it's a 90 minute role play simulation where everybody gets a chance to hear different perspectives. And so that was a real privilege being involved in testing that and very emotional. So things like role play simulation and those sorts of techniques that support better quality conversations. I sort of we experienced a situation where people have been working together for years and years, like the local flood Action Group and local planners, our members of staff, and people got to the point where they didn't want to go to the meetings anymore, but because it was redesigned around this role play simulation, and they all went along and took on someone else's role for 90 minutes. At the end they, it was quite emotional, and people, I think, were able to empathise and stand in the shoes of I didn't realise I was making you feel like that. And it was a building block for completely redesigning how the different stakeholders then worked together, and then they got together after the role play simulation, said, What does this mean for the way we're going to work together in the future? And it was just, it was very powerful. It wasn't very long. It's only 90 minutes, like I said, but it was just the fact that it was like a key I suppose that sort of opened up people's eyes to realise that they'd all been exhibiting behaviours that were really unhelpful if they did genuinely want to find a way forward with each other and help each other out to find solutions. And also, everyone went to the pub afterwards, which I think also just really helped for them to see each other as human beings and to realise that it's not easy for people to just work in a professional role and take their hat off. We are all people and we, you know, we do really need to respect each other within conversations. And it was a yes, it was quite a simple technique. And in the past, I would have been one of those people as soon as you say role play simulation, I would have been one of those people that's really sceptical, but it's really changed my view on the power of standing in someone else's shoes and pretending you're that person and doing that in a safe space. So that in the last few years has probably been the technique that I think has been most powerful in helping people that are really stuck in positions and the meetings have become very adversarial and difficult, and where our staff don't want to go, the stakeholders don't want to come. You know, it's the worst situation that you sort of as a facilitator and engagement expert that you bump into more often than you'd like to. And it's trying to help people reset their relationships. And it was a really powerful technique. H.J Wow, it's good I guess that you have such a technique that you know definitely works in a given situation. And it sounds like those perhaps conflicting, difficult conversations do come up a bit, I guess, with the very nature of the work that you do. C.B Yeah, absolutely, yeah. H.J And do you get to kind of play around much with different tools and techniques? Because I presume you've got quite a lot of time pressure to actually do the facilitation and do all the rest of the work that you need to do. Do you often fall back on tried and tested things? C.B Yeah, absolutely, we absolutely do fall back on tried and tested things, especially when we're doing things in-house. I think if we were, if there was a situation like that, we would use an independent facilitator to come in and help us. Even if I was doing some of the design work, I would be working alongside an independent facilitator. Yeah, I haven't done any roleplay simulation without an independent facilitator. And I think that is really worth it, and it can make a massive difference. So yes, it's recognizing those situations, I think, where something's become unproductive and difficult, mental health wise, for everybody involved, and it is worth then the investment of we need to do something different here. So we do support those situations.Most of the time,yeah, we're just using run of the mill techniques, like we love online since covid, you know, lots of online workshops, mural boards, or, you know, whiteboards that sort of thing is our go to run of the mill. What we would use all the time, slido polls, things like that. Yeah, that's just the everyday stuff that we're doing. Although, like having to be very wary about not making assumptions about people's sort of not everybody's comfortable with using those, those sorts of techniques, you know. So having to remember that you do need, you do need to give people space to understand how to use the mural board. And I think people, yeah, so the mural boards and concept boards, whatever you use, they're brilliant, but you do have to always remember to do a little intro. It sounds really obvious, but otherwise, I think it can be a real barrier for people. Some people just don't know how to move the bits and bobs around, and just not getting too comfortable with whatever technique you're using, I think is really helpful. There's loads and loads of techniques, and I think one of my favourite ones that I learned at the last International Association of Facilitators is like the role play simulation is a difficult technique, like, as in, difficult to design, and you need to do loads of prep. But the really quick technique that I learned was called, ‘I wonder if', and that was a really good technique, and it's just a different way of framing things so and that can be used at any moment with even within a meeting, you know, and that thinking about how you frame questions is maybe the, maybe the use of questions and how you frame questions is the most powerful tool that we've got as facilitators, in terms of, even within a session, that can make a real difference and turn a conversation around. H.J And I guess, particularly when you know you can't necessarily redesign a whole session each time for every piece of work you do, and sometimes, if it's about, perhaps just making those small changes, by asking those powerful questions then, and they get you the results, much easier to focus on doing something like that than thinking about sort of grand redesign and using all sorts of different tools and all the rest of it, which is nice, and I think does keep us kind of interested. But actually, there's a question about, I suppose, who are we doing that for? Are we doing that for us as facilitators, because it's interesting, or are we doing it for the participants? C.B Yeah, absolutely, yeah. I love a new technique. H.J I was gonna just a sort of extra question, really, about that online versus in person? What's the kind of balance? C.B Oh, yeah, like 95% online now, I would say. We've always been really careful, I think, as an organisation in when we get people together because of the carbon footprint. So, you know, ever since I joined the Environment Agency, there's, there's always, quite rightly, does this have to be face to face? Yeah, and we obviously use the trains and things like that. And, yeah, now is, since covid, I think it's, I guess, you know, we've realised the potential of online and invested in, you know, the government, just generally, I think, has invested more in sort of tools and techniques to help us as as people working for the government that to use those sorts of tools and techniques to have more effective online meetings. So the vast majority of the comms engagement work I do on projects is online workshops, rather than bringing people face to face. And that's a big change in the last five years, because when I was working on the National Flood and coastal risk management strategy four or five years ago, we did bring stakeholders together, at key points for face to face meetings. I think if we were doing that now, a lot of that would be online, so you still have, you still have meetings with people, but you know, they're virtual, which brings its opportunities and challenges. It's more inclusive for some people, because they don't have to travel. And, yeah, it's, but it's, there's something magical about having people in a room, and that's the bit you miss. H.J Yeah, definitely. I was going to just pick up on the challenges bit. So I've asked you about what you enjoy about facilitation, and you know, nice, all the nice stuff, but what are the main challenges of being an internal facilitator? C.B I think the main challenge is, I'm working on a project where, you know, where I'm always, whatever I'm working on, when you're working on the project, and you're part of the project team and you're the engagement advisor on it, how independent can you be? And that's a challenge. And so identifying when I need to bring in another in-house facilitator, or when I need to bring in an independent facilitator is really important, and I do, I do have to do that often on the big projects I work on. So, yeah, so that's that's a challenge, is recognizing when you need that and being able to see that far enough in advance so you know, so you can plan for that. And the other challenge, I think, is it's easy to get really busy on your day job and on your projects and that they are it is busy, and there is a lot to do,making space for me to go and be an independent facilitator for someone else, when you're really busy making space to do that as often as I can. Otherwise, I don't keep my skills fresh, and six months can go by and I realise I haven't gone and done something. I've done lots of facilitation, but I've not done anything for someone else that's completely independent of my day job. And so that's what I have to check myself on, is making sure that I am, I am still doing that, and when I do it, it's so brilliant. And that's when, like I said earlier, that's when you get taken out of your comfort zone of facilitator, which is what sharpens us up, I think. Because facilitation is hard, it is it's exhausting, but it's brilliant as well, when you have those magic moments, when people have understood, you know, understood each other better, and you've helped, by the way, you've designed that meeting and created that space. You've helped people to move forward more in a more positive way, and that's worth it. H.J Definitely. That's a definite similarity. I think, you know, as external facilitators, exactly the same. Well, certainly for me, you know, it's that feeling, I guess when you've you've done something right, you know it's gone well. And you know that people have come to a good place at the end, it's like, yes. Nice, big glow. C.B Yeah, ready for my Mars bar at the end. H.J Yeah. And so, I guess, last question really is, what advice would you give to anybody else that is working as an internal facilitator. Any words of wisdom? C.B Yes, I would say, keep taking opportunities for training, because I think formal training has its place. And I think going and doing more formal training, it's easy to sort of just do your training initially and then never do any more formal training. I think formal training has its place as facilitators. So going and regularly doing formal training. Definitely mixing with other facilitators who are not part of your organisation. So the International Association of Facilitators provides that perfect opportunity in April. It's you know, and so if you're able to go along, even if it's just for a day, not the whole thing, I think that's really helpful. And then the last thing is, as often as you possibly can, is to facilitate outside of your day job. And I know that's difficult, it's difficult to make the time, but that is, I think, where you'll build your confidence as an independent facilitator. And getting, you know, getting feedback, I guess, is the last bit that links to that other one. So yeah, that's the things I would encourage people to do. H.J Brilliant. Thank you. It's been brilliant to talk to you today, and thank you so much for sharing your wisdom and bits and pieces about all of your experience and all the stuff you love about facilitation. C.B Thank you too. H.J So listeners, we've reached the end of another episode of facilitation stories, the community podcast of IAF, England and Wales N.W If you'd like to find out more about the IAF and how to get involved, all of the links are on our website. Facilitationstories.com H.J And to make sure you never miss an episode, why not subscribe to the show on whatever podcast app you use? N.W We're always on the lookout for new episode ideas. So is there a fabulous facilitator you think we should talk to? H.J Or something interesting emerging in the world of facilitation you think listeners need to hear about? N.W Send us an email at podcast@IAF-Englandwales.org . H.J We hope you'll join us again soon for more facilitation stories. N.W Until then, thank you for listening.

River Rambling

Waterlands

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2024 25:38

There is little more grounding than walking along a river. Scientists have shown that spending time near bodies of water, particularly while exercising, can boost your overall health and mood. In this episode of Waterlands, Megan McCubbin takes us on a journey to a remote and secret river in rural Wales followed by a city centre river in Cardiff. Three different river walkers explain why they do it and how it has changed their life. First up, television presenter (and president of WWT) Kate Humble shares her very special walk home with her trusty companion Teg, from the source of the River Wye to where it joins the River Severn near her home. The writer, Helia Phoenix takes us on a guided meditation and shares her story of ADHD breakdown, diagnosis and recovery, explaining how mindful walking along the River Taff, helped her access the simple beauty all around - the colour of the wall or the sudden crash-landing of a duck onto water. And Li An Phoa of Drinkable Rivers has been walking for the last ten years for another reason – to bring awareness to her cause, to kick-start a coalition of the willing around each river that she visits, and because she made a promise to the Rupert River in Canada, to do all she could to return to a world with drinkable rivers. Featuring: Kate Humble, Helia Phoenix and Li An Phoa. Presented by Megan McCubbin If this episode has inspired you to take action for wetlands or discover more about our rivers, visit wwt.org.uk. Waterlands is brought to you by WWT. It's an 18Sixty production, produced by Ellie Richold, mixed by Melvin Rickarby and original music by Noah Bloom.

canada adhd scientists wales ramblings cardiff wwt teg river severn megan mccubbin

Dragons and Serpents of Welsh Witchcraft with Brett Hollyhead

Pagan's Witchy Corner

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2024 26:29

In this episode, I sit down with Brett Hollyhead to discuss his upcoming book and dragons and serpents in Welsh witchcraft and folklore! Join us for this fun chat! Music is from Epidemic Sound. Books mentioned in the episode: *Some links below are affiliated links and help me continue producing content.* Pagan Portals Sabrina: Discovering the Goddess of the River Severn. Due in 2025 All about Brett: Known in the magical circles as the Witch of Salopia, Brett is a devoted folk practitioner, born and raised with the stories, traditions, and magic of the Welsh Marches. He is a workshop leader, public speaker across the UK, and author of the upcoming book Sabrina: Goddess of the River Severn with Moon Books. Brett is also a regular contributor to several zines and has appeared on both Welsh and Japanese television to share the folklore of his home. He is also a professional pole dance instructor and proud member of both OBOD and the Welsh Coven Cylch y Sarffes Goch. Where to connect with Brett: Facebook -Brett Hollyhead https://www.facebook.com/brett.hollyhead/ Instagram- witch_of_Salopia https://www.instagram.com/witch_of_salopia TikTok- Witch of Salopia https://www.tiktok.com/discover/witch-of-salopia Threads- witch_of_salopia https://www.threads.net/@witch_of_salopia Thank you to my subscribers! Want to support the growth of Pagan's Witchy Corner? Become a Subscriber! Subscribers get access to bonus episodes only for them! Subscribe today at one of the links below! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://ko-fi.com/witchycornerproductions⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you would prefer to listen to it in video format, you can listen to it here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://youtu.be/zXNycx-s350⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to Books and Cosplay: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/booksandcosplay⁠⁠⁠ For more book reviews, podcast info, cosplay information, and info about my books and my store: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.witchycornerproductions.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the Discord: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://discord.gg/9jRs5SgvQa ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow me on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/witchycornerproductions⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/paganswitchycorner/support

music uk books japanese witches discord dragons goddess welsh witchcraft pagan cosplay subscriber serpents epidemic sound river severn obod

Severn

Drama of the Week

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2024 44:45

Edward is a lave net fisherman who spends his days wading and sifting in the tricky tidal waters of the River Severn. When something unexpected turns up in his net, an old mystery rushes back into his life like a spring tide. Starring Jason Hughes and Remy Beasley.Writer - Keri CollinsCASTEdward - Jason HughesEllie - Remy BeasleyLizzie - Katharine RogersBoatyard Jack - Joe SimsJohn - Christian PattersonMaria - Lucy RiversMick - Stuart McLoughlinHolly - Amelie AnthonyProduction Coordinator - Eleri McAuliffeSound Design - Nigel LewisField Recordings - Jonathan ThomasDirector - John NortonA BBC Audio Wales ProductionWith thanks to : Black Rock Lave Net Heritage Fishery

severn river severn

The Prisoner of Aquamon

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2024 49:58

Owen Blackhurst is with Seb White and Tommy Stewart to chat being Merk'd, Rio Ferdinand, Seb's steamy glasses, Bruno Fernandes, John Stones, Northern grit, Tinder, Jack Grealish, Bukayo Saka, splinter groups, coups, Nicolas Anelka, Thierry Henry, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Juventus, France's Olympic football team, Wenger's double, Gary Neville, Peter Schmeichel, Robbie Fowler, Woody from Toy Story, Davor Šuker at Arsenal, Maradona at Sevilla, Guardians of the Galaxy, Marvel, Harry Potter, the 1966 World Cup final, Saving Private Ryan, Winston Churchill, Nobby Styles, George Best, Jason Mamoa, Aquamon, Indonesia, the River Severn, Rockports, Barack Obama, Ángel Di María, Louis van Gaal, Pablo Bastianini, Fernando Morientes, Steven Caulker, Yeovil, Andros Townsend, Harry Redknapp, Terry Skiverton, Seby's Special Soldier Award, scoring on your England debut, Rio Ferdinand, Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool, defenders as strikers, the sickening gambling industry, Sierra Leone, Malaga, Curtis Davies, Rangers, Amad Diallo, football spreadsheets, Brian Potter, mates on mountains, Luis Díaz, Godzilla, random 7-a-side teams, midfield enforcers, Fabrizio Romano, tabloid gossip, the sack race, Erik ten Hag, Ramona's Jalapeño hummus, @backyardcricketengland, the shoebill stork, Chris Pratt, Norfolk, little turns, seals, flight prices, Hamburg airport, treading on bollocks, the window seat, and somehow so much more.Get the latest issue of MUNDIAL Mag hereFollow MUNDIAL on Twitter - @mundialmagFollow MUNDIAL on Instagram - @mundialmag Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Embracing Challenges and Celebrating Achievements - Monday Night Live

Negotiators Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2024 36:24

Embracing Challenges: David Skinner's Epic Solo Cycle Ride Across Wales Welcome to another episode of Monday Night Live (MNL)! We're thrilled to bring back David Skinner, a long-time friend of MNL who has shared his incredible adventures with us each year. This week, David takes us on an extraordinary solo cycle ride across the length of Wales. Introduction by Derek ArdenHello everybody, I'm Derek Arden, your host for Monday Night Live, where we share stories of extraordinary people who often stay under the radar. Tonight, we have David Skinner, an adventurer who has conquered mountains like Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, and the Andes. Now, he has taken on a new challenge: cycling the length of Wales. I followed David on the Garmin app during his journey, and we'll delve into his motivations and experiences. Whether you're an adventurer or a fan of human determination, this episode will inspire and motivate you. Motivation Behind the RideDavid begins by sharing what inspired this challenge. It started with a Christmas gift from his wife: a guidebook for "Lôn Las Cymru," a remote cycle route from the southern to the northern tip of Wales. The idea of traversing such a varied and challenging landscape intrigued him. Despite the demanding nature of the ride, David saw it as a personal challenge worth undertaking. The RouteDavid's route included some of Wales' most stunning parts, such as the Brecon Beacons, the Cambrian Mountains, Cader Idris, and Snowdonia National Park. He shares breathtaking images of Snowdonia, highlighting the stark contrast between the lush, green landscapes and rugged mountain terrains. Day-by-Day Breakdown of the Journey Preparation and PlanningPreparation was key to David's success. He discusses the importance of health, fitness, motivation, nutrition, recovery, weather, mechanics, route finding, and safety. He emphasizes that meticulous planning and having contingencies in place were crucial for navigating the unpredictable Welsh weather and challenging terrain. Day 1: Cardiff to GlasburyDavid's adventure began in Cardiff, starting at the Cardiff Bay docks. The first day's journey followed the Taff Trail, taking him out of the city and into more remote areas. The transition from urban to rural was stark and exhilarating. He cycled 114 kilometers, climbing about 5,000 feet, and ended the day in Glasbury, near Hay-on-Wye, known for its second-hand bookshops. Day 2: Glasbury to LlanidloesThe second day was deceptively challenging. Despite being a shorter route, David felt the fatigue setting in. He crossed the River Severn at Builth Wells, cycled through lush landscapes near Rhayader, and ended the day in the charming town of Llanidloes. The cumulative effort of the previous day made this leg particularly tough. Day 3: Llanidloes to BarmouthDay three presented the most climbing, with David navigating the Hafren Forest and ascending to the high point near Cader Idris. The weather was unpredictable, with heavy showers giving way to sunshine, creating a surreal cycling experience. He navigated through the slate valleys and reached the historic Barmouth Bridge, ending his day in the coastal town of Barmouth. Day 4: Barmouth to HolyheadThe final day was the longest and featured the greatest ascent. David cycled along the coast, through Porthmadog, and up towards Carnarvon. The views of the Snowdon mountain range were breathtaking, but fatigue and soreness set in, making the final leg to Holyhead a true test of endurance. Despite the challenges, he reached his destination, feeling a profound sense of accomplishment. Reflections and Lessons LearnedBalancing Go-for-it and PlanningDavid reflects on the importance of balancing enthusiasm with meticulous planning. While a positive attitude and willingness to take risks are essential, having a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference. Value of ContingencyHaving contingency plans provided David with the confidence to commi...

25 April 2024 Cyber and Tech News

Cyber and Technology with Mike

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2024 9:44

In today's podcast we cover four crucial cyber and technology topics, including: Swiss Plasma company impacted by BlackSuit Lincoln Project victim of BEC attack Czech new site hacked to display fake news Tiktok apparent target in new U.S. legislation I'd love feedback, feel free to send your comments and feedback to | cyberandtechwithmike@gmail.com

234. Explore a desolate graveyard of ships on the River Severn

explore ships graveyards fergus desolate sharpness river severn

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2024 37:34

Between the villages of Purton and Sharpness on the River Severn, dozens of barges and ships lie on the riverbank, slowly decomposing into the landscape. But the reason why they're here will surprise you. Plodcast host Fergus takes a walk among the river with countryside writer Simon Heptinstall to learn the story of the Purton Hulks. Contact the Plodcast team and send your sound recordings of the countryside to: editor@countryfile.com. If your letter, email or message is read out on the show, you could WIN a Plodcast Postbag prize of a wildlife- or countryside-themed book chosen by the team. Visit the Countryfile Magazine website: countryfile.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

19. Day 79 with 'Tree Pilgrim' Martin Hügi

Woodland Walks - The Woodland Trust Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2023 32:06

Sheltering from the rain under a yew tree in a Shrewsbury churchyard, we chat to 'Tree Pilgrim' Martin Hügi, the Trust's outreach manager in the South East. He's taken a four-month sabbatical to walk from Land's End to John O'Groats and visit thousands of incredible trees along the way. Hear Martin on awe-inspiring trees that have rendered him speechless, the vital Ancient Tree Inventory that helped plan the route, the value of ‘plugging in' to nature and what's in his kit bag! We also hear from Adele, who explains that old trees like those on Martin's pilgrimage are not protected or prioritised like our built heritage. Find out what you can do to help. Don't forget to rate us and subscribe! Learn more about the Woodland Trust at woodlandtrust.org.uk Transcript You are listening to Woodland Walks, a podcast for the Woodland Trust presented by Adam Shaw. We protect and plant trees for people, for wildlife. Adam: Today I am off to meet the Tree Pilgrim, which is the moniker of Martin Hugi, who is doing a proper marathon pilgrimage from Land's End to John O'Groats using the Woodland Trust's Ancient Tree Inventory, so you're gonna visit a huge number of ancient and veteran trees, something like 6,500 of them he's expecting along his walk and I caught up with him in Shrewsbury in Shropshire, which is just on the River Severn about 150 miles or thereabouts, north, north west of London, and I caught up with him at a rather rainy churchyard. This is very unusual because normally I join people on walks, but actually you've been walking for what, what day is it? Martin: I'm on day... 79 today Adam: You had to think about that! Martin: I had to think about that. Adam: Yeah. So this is so you've actually taken a break and you've come into Shrewsbury and we're, we're we are in a green space in a churchyard where, now we're we're here for a special reason. Why? Martin: So last night I was giving a talk, talking about ancient trees and the the need for greater protection and just telling my story of what I've been up to. Adam: Right, well, first of all tell me a bit about this pilgrimage you're going on. Martin: Yeah. So I'm calling it an ancient tree pilgrimage and it is a walk from Land's End to John O'Groats and I spent 12 months planning meticulously a route between some of the most amazing trees that I could fit into a north-south route and working out the detail of how I wassgoing to get to those trees via other trees on the Ancient Tree Inventory. Adam: So the Land's End to John O'Groats, which that walk, famous sort of trip which is called LEGO for short, is it? Martin: LEJOG, or JOGLE if you go the other way. Adam: LEJOG, right OK, LEJOG. Martin: Land's End to John O'Groats. Adam: OK. It's long if you do it straight, but you've gone, gone a sort of wiggly woggly way, haven't you? Because you're going actually via interesting trees. So how many miles is that gonna be? Martin: Yeah, that's right. Yeah. Well, it's if you're going to go a sort of more classic route, it would be something like 1,080 or 1,100 sort of miles. The route that I've planned is 2,077 miles. Adam: Wow. Martin: So it's double. Adam: 2,077 mile walk. Martin: Yeah, I had estimated doing 18 miles a day. That would be, that was my average. I'd sort of planned rough stops where I thought I might be able to get to. I'm more doing about 13 miles a day, which is not a lot less, but it's, I'm spending more time with the trees. And I, we also we lost our our dog on the day that I was setting off. We went down to Penzance to start and we took our our old family dog with us and he was very old and and elderly and he actually died on the morning that I was going to set off. So we just drove back home and didn't fancy starting again for another couple of weeks. So if you can be behind on a pilgrimage, I was already 2 weeks behind, but actually, I'm on a pilgrimage, so it's it's it's about the journey. Adam: Would you say you're a religious person? Martin: Not in the classic sense of an organised religion, but I, I do have a spiritual side to me for sure. Yeah. Adam: And what difference then, you you talk about this tree pilgrimage and it not being about the distance, it's about the journey, which, you know, one often hears. What, if anything, have you learnt about your feelings for the natural world, or what you think it can offer you, or what you can offer it during this journey so far? Martin: Yeah, I think I'm learning about my connection with nature and ancient trees and the sites that they sit in as being good places to access that connection. So one of the stories that I tell is about meeting the Majesty Oak in Fredville Park in Kent. And we went with a conservation trip with work and it's just such an incredible tree at it's 12.5 metre girth and a maiden oak. And it just goes straight up and it's just it's, it's, it's bulk, it's sheer dominance and size literally blew my mind to the point where I was speechless for a couple of minutes and I wasn't the only one, and because I think it it just it takes you out of the ordinary state of ‘this is what a tree is' and it put me into a state of, this is something different, and it was a a real feeling of awe and I get that from ancient trees, I sometimes I will feel awe and that's a a rare feeling in my life and potentially a lot of people's lives. And I think that's well, that's what I'm seeking, I suppose, but it's almost like a gateway feeling for other potential feelings that you can cultivate around nature and trees. Just things like respect and gratitude, and I've actually found myself thanking some of the trees because of, they're just full, so full of life and and they're persisting and the resilience and feeling actual gratitude that they persist and doing what they do. Adam: And you must meet a lot of people on your walk. 70 odd days in so far, they must ask you what on Earth you're doing and must give you some sort of response. What, have people been surprised, shocked, do they think you're nuts? Do they go ‘can I join you'? What's been the response? Martin: All of those things, I suppose. Yeah, I'll, I'll sort of tell them what I'm doing and and as soon as I get to Ancient Tree Inventory, I get a blank look. Adam: OK. Well, you say lots of people don't know about this, let's talk about this. First of all, what is it, and then how do people get involved? Martin: Yes. So it is a citizen science project, it's an open publicly accessible data set of ancient trees across the UK. Adam: And so I could, I mean, for instance, today if we think we found this ancient tree, we would go on the register and go, here it is, we think it's a, you know, a an ancient oak or what whatever it is and we measure its girth, its its width at about do you do it about 3 metres high? Is that what you meant to do? Martin: It's 1.5 metres. Adam: So only twice wrong *laughs* there we are, well a good margin of error. Yeah, 3 metres is too high. No, I'm short as it is, overblown idea of how tall I am. So 1.5 metres high you sort of take a tape measure and you measure it and you say you you think you you know what it is, you give it a good go and there's lots of online apps you can help you. And you sort of make comments about the tree. You sort of say it's in this sort of condition, but you don't have to be an expert, it is just fine to give it give it a go. Martin: Absolutely and and actually you don't need a tape measure, you can you can make an estimate and if you don't know what the tree is exactly or don't know what it is at all, you can still add it to the inventory and it will, it won't appear as a public facing record at that point, but it will show up to an ancient tree verifier, a volunteer ancient tree verifier. It will show up as an unverified tree and and I I am an ancient tree verifier, since 2008, and I'll be able to see that there's an unverified tree here and I can go along, I can say, well, it is an oak and I can measure it if I can measure it, if it's possible. And I can record other details about the tree like its veteran characteristics. Adam: So already, I mean I don't get too bogged down into all of this, but I get notable trees like an event has happened under them, and there's lots of amazing trees where the Magna Carta was signed under one the Tolpuddle Martyr, the first ever union was created under a tree, so there's lots of historically important trees like that. But the the difference between veteran and ancient, is there a clear distinction between those? Martin: No, in a way it's a subjective thing, but there is guidelines. There are, for different species, there are graphs saying if it's over this sort of girth you you would, it would be erring into an ancient tree. And and different species and different growth rates so there'll be different sizes. My, so a sort of colloquial definition is it's a tree that makes you go wow, would be an ancient tree and be that awe inspiring sort of feeling. But then also an ancient tree is one where you can see that it's been through multiple stages of growth, and what you'd say as a development phase for a tree, so an oak tree for example, you'd be able to see that it's it's, it's gone up and it's done it's mature oak, it's lost limbs and then it's shrunk back down again and then it's gone back up again and then it's come back down again and it's gone back up again and you can see that history in the shape and form of an ancient tree. So an ancient tree is a veteran tree. It's just that it's been a veteran multiple times and it's gone through them. Adam: And presumably it's different for different species, because I mean, we're looking at a couple of yews, I mean, a yew tree can last 2,000 years. So what might be old for a yew tree is very different, might be old for a cherry tree, for instance. So you you can't apply the same rule for all trees, presumably. Martin: You can apply that same thinking and principle to all trees that, has it been through multiple stages of life and development. Yew trees for sure are some of the oldest living trees. Something that's really stood out to me in Powys, in Wales and, is how they will put roots down into the inside of their decaying stems. Roots go down, they're called adventitious roots, and it's literally feeding off of the decaying body of itself and then those adventitious roots become stems, and I've seen this over and over, and again in some of the oldest yews that, the internal stems are adventitious roots and the outside of the tree is decayed and and hollow and and so in theory a yew tree is potentially immortal. You know, they just go on and on because you you can see some of these big stems that will have adventitious roots inside them, but that big stem might have been an adventitious route originally, so they're just incredible trees and and all trees will do that. Adam: And so why is it important that this thing exists? I mean, why why make a register of ancient trees, apart from the fact you might want like quite like an excuse to go around the country listing them, which I I get that might be fun, but why is it important? Martin: I think there are, there's there's several reasons, really. I mean, apart from, I mean a simple one would be cultural and social history and the heritage as part of our our common collective heritage. But then there's also from a some more sort of biological view, they are old genetics, they're old genes that have persisted, so they're adapted to their conditions, who knows how many offspring they've generated and the genetics that that tree came from, you know, going back into millennia, so I think they're an important reserve of genetic history. They're also nodes of undisturbed soils, so they obviously clearly have been there such a long time that the roots and the mycorrhizal associations under the ground and the complexity of life that is in that area, it's like a node of of life and of part of our landscape that hasn't changed and that is an incredibly important place, akin to ancient woodland soils. Adam: And the whole the whole idea about ancient woodland itself is that you can't replace tree for tree, you can't knock down an ancient tree and and put in a new tree and it be as environmentally beneficial, so it's surely it's important because if we know about how to modify our landscape, if we're, whether where we should build new homes or or or anything, then actually it's important to know what we're disturbing, you can only do that if you know what's there. Martin: Absolutely, yeah and I mean *church bells ring* sorry that's just distracted me *laughs*. Adam: That's fine, distracted, distracted, slightly by the the ominous bells of the church in whose yard we are sitting in at the moment. So, you know, we're we're under a beech, you might hear the rain. We're cowering from sort of fairly light rain and in this churchyard and just listening to those those bells, anyway, they've they've gone, they've gone so. Martin: It's where Charles Darwin was baptised. Adam: In this church? Charles Darwin? Well, that, that raises a really interesting point, because also I know the local community were trying to protect an oak. And they called it the Charles Darwin Oak. You know, it's always good to have a name, isn't it? And they called it that because they think, well, you know, Charles Darwin could legitimately have played under this oak. It's old enough, and it's where he was baptised and everything. And it raises this issue, doesn't it, about people's connections to trees and local communities' connections to trees and it, I mean, I, from, as an outsider, it feels that that is becoming more a thing more a thing that people talk about, just regular people do feel it's important to have this connection. Martin: I I think it's it's it really is yeah. I think people are now realising much more how the trees and the ecosystems around them actually provide us with the atmosphere and the our ability to live on this planet. It really is such a fundamental part of being human and survival to look after these green spaces that it's it's, you know, people are, people do realise that I think people do recognise that. Adam: It it brings us on to the debate about the environment and protection. It was interesting, on the way here, I was reading an article by Jonathan Friedland, the great writer, who was talking about the ecological debate, saying they've said the the ecological sort of lobby group have the argument right, but they're using the wrong words and and he was saying that you know that that their argument isn't framed in the right way, but it feels like this is a super important moment, maybe a flex point, one doesn't want to overemphasise these things, sort of, but does feel that, I mean, right this week we are seeing heatwaves, I mean sort of properly dangerous heatwaves in southern Europe. Flooding, there was flooding on the motorway as I came here, so we have extremes of weather which feel very unusual for this sort of early summery type period. How worried are you about the environment and our ability to actually do something to protect it and our place in it? Martin: I am confident that we have the know-how and the ability as humans to change our ways to a more sustainable way of living in harmony. I think that is changing. I think the economics has got to be part of this debate and the conversation, I I read a fantastic book in 2008 by Eric Beinhocker, The Origin of Wealth. I don't know if you've heard of this and looking at the environment as complex adaptive systems, but he was also saying how the economy is a complex adaptive system and evolution of economy, evolution is a, you you can't predict a thing what's going to happen sometimes and Adam: No, I understand. And that's interesting to the, that the economy is itself an ecology and it adapts to the environment that it's facing. And I agree, I used to do a series for the BBC called Horizons when we travelled the world looking at technology. And I tend to the panicky, I have to say, and I thought this wouldn't be good for me when I'm looking at big challenges facing the world. And actually, I was really drawn to the fact that there are tech solutions to all sorts of issues, and it's often the money that's preventing, you go, ‘we can fix it, it's just not commercially viable'. No one wants to pay to do this at the moment, but if oil prices went through the roof, suddenly this alternative would be commercially viable. So it was, we talk a lot about technology, sometimes it is the economics of it which are preventing us from doing things and the economics change, don't they? So that that might be. Martin: They do and it's something that is not predictable because there's so many moving components, there's so many interactions, there's so many feedback loops that, I mean, that's something that intrigues me about complex systems is that, the more complexity you have, the more feedback loops, the more agents that are interacting with each other in a system, the more resilient it is to change, but it can shift if if you if you get some events that are just too too much or you you degrade the amount of complexity then that system becomes less stable and that's the, that's the danger with, potentially what we're doing with trees and our environment, our, if you like a tree is an emergent property of the soil, it's it's an expression of of of what, of plant life and it's it started as algae coming out of warm freshwater, sea, freshwater in, 600 million years ago and and partnering with fungi to make, to have lichens. And then you get soil and then other things, other more complex plants evolve and then we've ended up with trees and they're like the, an emergent property of complex systems of the soil. Adam: So we're talking about people's interaction with the environment. I should explain some of the symphony of sound we're hearing. So we we had the church bells, we had the rain above us. And I think there is a charity Race for Life with, thousands of people have emerged, in in a bit of green land we were going to actually walk through. And I think there's a sort of charity run going on, which is why you might hear, some big blaring music in the background, which is not as quiet a spot as we thought we might have ended up with, but does show the amenity value of these open green spaces. It's just rather a lot of people have chosen to use it on, on this particular day. One of the other things I just want to talk to you about as well while we're talking about this debate, and I know you talk on on behalf of yourself, not the Trust, and you're taking a sabbatical so these are your views, but given the debate we're all having, it feels to me that we talk a lot about armageddon. And I know from talking to people, you know, my family, they they sort of just disengage with after a while it just becomes background noise. And I wonder if you have an idea or an insight into how to talk about these issues to explain that they are potentially the difference between humans surviving and not surviving and yet not just sound like, some crazy guy screaming into the wind and also to stop people going ‘well, if that's the way it is then you know what am I gonna do I, I just better carry on because I can't do anything about it'. Is there a key that we're missing you feel, or an emphasis that we have wrong in engaging with this topic? Martin: I don't know if I would say I have an answer to whether it's wrong or not, or the way we engage with it, but I think for me the the key is connection to nature and encouraging people and you've got to start young, I think, getting children through forest school perhaps, getting them out outside and experiencing nature because that's where nature connection comes from. And you don't need a, you don't need an ancient tree to to give you a sense of awe. I mean you I I can and ppeople can find awe in a tiny flower, but it's just a case of looking and spending time plugging in if you like. Adam: You're right. I mean, I'm not sure I'd quite describe it as awe, but I often have in my car like a a little bit of a berry or an acorn and and you know, sometimes, it's going to sound weird now I'm describing it *laughs* but if I'm in a traffic jam or something and I look at those things and go actually, do you know what, if that was a piece of jewellery that was designed almost identical, we'd pay a lot of money for it and we'd go, ‘isn't that beautiful?' And you'd hang it around your neck in a way that you probably wouldn't hang an acorn around your neck or most people wouldn't. And yet you look at it and you go, it's quite extraordinary when you take time to look at these things a leaf or something, and I don't want to sound, you know, too Mother Earthy about it and people to, turn people off about that. But taking the time just to look, sometimes, you go, the wonder is in the detail. It is there actually it's quite fun and it's free. Martin: Yeah and and I think when we when we go into a potentially, you know an undisturbed habitat like an ancient woodland where there is complexity and and you you immerse yourself in those areas, that's that's where you you you you can see, you can feel life. Adam: Let me take you back to your walk, because, from which I have dragged you. A hundred odd days planned on the road, carrying all your own stuff. That means you have to find a place to sleep. Wash every now and then. I mean you you smell beautiful so I'm I'm assuming you've found some magic trick or you are washing and carrying clothes. What, just what is the trick for doing that? Because sometimes I go away for the weekend and I feel I'm already carrying far too much. How are you doing a hundred odd day walk carrying everything. What's the trick, what's your sort of kit list? Martin: Yeah, I I did spend about two years actually building up different kits and trying different things to be as lightweight as possible. But that's in a way that, the whole having to find somewhere to camp, having to find water, these are basic simple things that take you away from all the other stuff that is going on you know, in my life sort of thing so I can actually immerse myself into the flow of of that journey. Adam: So, but just because you, look, you're wearing a lightweight top, it's it's raining. No coat at the moment, I mean, but sort of how much clothes are you taking? And you know, yeah, how many, how, how many shirts? How many socks? How many pairs of pants? I've never asked this of another man before *laughs* How many pairs of pants do you have? Martin: Right. Well, I can answer that *laughs* I have five pairs of pants, five pairs of socks, three pairs, three shirts, three T-shirts and just one top that I'm wearing now, a rainjacket and some waterproof trousers and some walking trousers and a pair of shorts. That is actually my clothing list. The the socks, the pants and the T-shirts are all merino wool essentially so they're very lightweight, they're very thin, very lightweight. Don't, merino wool or wool doesn't pick up smells and odours readily. The socks have got silver woven into them, so they're antifungal, antibacterial, and they're pretty amazing socks, actually. And they they dry as well. So the T-shirts are very thin merino wool T-shirts. I can wash them and they'll be dry in a few hours, especially with the hot weather that I was having in May and June. Adam: Not, not the rain, nothing's gonna dry in this rain, although this tree is providing some amazing cover for us. So look, you've come into Shrewsbury to to to meet me to have a look at this ancient tree, which I I might leave you to measure yourself given the the increasing amount of rain that is pouring down on us. And I stupidly did not bring a coat because I just thought it was such nice weather when I left. Anyway, what is, when I leave you, where are you off to? Where is the next sort of part of this walk taking you? Martin: Well, I am, will be taken back to my tent, which I've left at a campsite in, near Brecon and and then I am heading north to some yew trees and then to, up to Welshpool and Oswestry and then across into, towards in between Liverpool and Manchester and then north, Cumbria, Scotland. We'll see how, how, how far we get. Adam: I know you thought the first bit of the trip you've you've not been on pace to actually complete it, but you never know, it, you might pick up, it might might get easier going. Martin: I've actually slowed down and I thought I would speed up as I went along and as I got fitter and stronger I thought I would speed up but actually I've started to slow down and go at the pace, at a pace that my body wants to go at as well as the time and mental space that I wanted to to have from this trip. Yeah. Adam: That's the difference in us. You're you're going to go off and measure a tree, and I'm going to find a coffee *laughs* some, somewhere dry. Look, best of luck, an amazing journey. Thank you very much. Thank you. And if you've been inspired by Martin's journey and want to help protect veteran and ancient trees but don't want to take a marathon walk the length of the country, there is still something you can do from the comfort of your armchair. Adele: So, I'm Adele Benson, I'm a campaigner at the Woodland Trust. Adam: So what can people do to actually help? Adele: We're running currently the Living Legends campaign to secure better legal protection for our oldest and most special trees. Because ultimately we are seeing some of our oldest trees with, you know, immense ecological wildlife and historic value being felled, or the value of them is not being fully appreciated in law. We've got a petition with almost 50,000 signatures and and we're trying to ultimately get to 100,000. Adam: So if anyone is interested, they can search the Woodland Trust's Living Legends campaign on their computer and you can sign that online. Great, great stuff. I I think people might be surprised to learn that buildings often, or perhaps most of the time, get better legal protection than trees, even if the trees are older and actually more significant than the built structure next to it. Adele: Yeah. So in Hampstead Heath, there's a, it's approximately 300 year old beech tree. And and it was planted next to a fence that had just been erected so think back 300 years ago. Now this fence has a Grade II listing on it, but the beech tree doesn't have any legal protection at all. So when they were found that the roots of the beech tree and the trunk was sort of impacting quite heavily on the fence, they were very, they wanted to essentially cut down this tree and remove it. However, that's not now happened luckily, but it's essentially having that equivalent of protection that is so desperately needed because we're valuing this this built heritage but we're not valuing this natural heritage that we have such a wealth of in the UK. The Woodland Trust celebrated its 50th anniversary last year and in that time, it's been working considerably to protect some of our oldest and most special trees and woodland, and ultimately I think it's now a time for action. Adam: So let's just remind everyone that is the Living Legends campaign, which you can search for online if you want to sign that petition. And if you just want to find a woodland near you to walk in, just go to the Woodland Trust website, type in, find a wood that will come up with a whole range of places near you that you can visit. Until next time, happy wandering. Thank you for listening to the Woodland Trust Woodland Walks with Adam Shaw. Join us next month, when Adam will be taking another walk in the company of Woodland Trust staff, partners and volunteers. Don't forget to subscribe to the series on iTunes or wherever you're listening to us and do give us a review and a rating. And why not send us a recording of your favourite woodland walk to be included in a future podcast? Keep it to a maximum of five minutes and please tell us what makes your woodland walk special or send us an e-mail with details of your favourite walk and what makes it special to you. Send any audio files to podcast@woodlandtrust.org.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Series 2 Episode 4: Worcestershire

The Three Ravens Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2023 53:38

VOTE FOR THE THREE RAVENS PODCAST IN THE BRITISH PODCAST AWARDS HERE: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/votingOn this week's episode of The Three Ravens Podcast, Eleanor and Martin wend their way to Worcestershire, home of the famous sauce which, turns out, is made from fermented fish!With the episode released on St Neot's Day, they discuss his life of crow conversion and fox frustration, chat about Lughnasa, then paddle down the River Severn to explore the history and folklore of Worcestershire - from black pears and haunted priest holes to the Witch of Pebworth, the faeries of Osebury Rock, the Curse of Raggedstone Hill, and much more besides. Then it's time for the main event: Eleanor's telling of "The Legend of the Swan."Learn more about The Three Ravens Podcast at www.threeravenspodcast.com and join our Patreon at www.patreon.com/threeravenspodcast. Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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The Shrewsbury Biscuit Podcast: Make Our River Safer

The Shrewsbury Biscuit Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2023 74:40

Today this episode is brought to you via the River Severn. Alex and Verity are on the Sabrina Boat's picnic boat and for this episode they will be talking about river safety. Joining the show for this one are experts on river safety Andy Neal and David Brown for West Mercia Search and Rescue. Also joining the show is representative from 'Make Our River Safer' - Victoria Ireland.Where does 'Make Our River Safer' come from and what impact can a Facebook page (that has 7,000 followers) have on the community? Well Victoria is here to talk about the great work that they do, collaborating with so many in Shrewsbury.Andy and David talk about 'the job.' What kind of duties are there when it comes to being a member of Search and Rescue. What advice is there for a worried parent or friend that is passionately looking for a someone that may have fallen into the river? What advice is there for someone who might find a person struggling in the river? What advice is there for you, if you happen to fall in the river?There is so much information included in this episode that It really is just best to get stuck into it.Follow 'Make Our River Safer' on Facebook right here - https://www.facebook.com/makeourriversaferFind our everything you need to know about West Mercia Search and Rescue via their website right here - https://westmerciasar.org.uk/Thank you to everyone involved with this one. We appreciate that this is a difficult subject for many. We are just glad that we managed to put something together that can help people with some great advice. - AL

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17. Wye Valley ancient woods with Kate Humble

Woodland Walks - The Woodland Trust Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2023 59:05

Join us as presenter, author and farmer Kate Humble guides us through magical ancient woodland near her remote Wales home in the Wye Valley. With infectious enthusiasm and occasional impressions, she tells us about the plants and animals along our route as well as the story of her accidental career, becoming host of nation's favourite Springwatch having never wanted to be a TV presenter! Kate also talks worldwide travels, access to nature and planting trees with the Woodland Trust on her smallholding. Don't forget to rate us and subscribe! Learn more about the Woodland Trust at woodlandtrust.org.uk Transcript You are listening to Woodland Walks, a podcast for the Woodland Trust presented by Adam Shaw. We protect and plant trees for people, for wildlife. Adam: Well, in early spring I went on a woodland walk in Wales with presenter, author and farmer Kate Humble, who was taking me around what promised to be some amazing woodland with her dogs. But as is increasingly common in these podcasts we of course had to begin with me getting absolutely and entirely lost. This is an absolute disaster. Although I am bad at directions, this is not my fault *laughs* So Kate sent me a pin, she said look this is going to be hard to find my place, she sent me a map pin. I followed the map pin. Look I'm here I don't know if you can hear this you probably can't hear this. This is the gate that's locked, which is across some woodland path. So I can't get there. And of course there is no phone signal, so I'm going to have to drive all the way back to some town to find a phone signal. And I'm already late. OK. I have managed to find a village where there is a phone signal. I've managed to call Kate and Kate *laughs* Kate has clearly got the measure of me and told me to give up and she is now going to get in her car and find me in this village and I will follow her back. In the meantime, we have passed Google map pins back and forwards, which apparently tell her that I'm sitting outside her house. But I really am nowhere near her house, so I seem to have broken Google which well, that's a first. Anyway I've got a banana here, so if she's a long time, I have dinner and I'll just wait. This will never happen. This will actually never happen. Well we've found Kate. We've found a whirly country drive lane. Feels a bit like rally driving. It's like, I mean, I don't understand why my map wouldn't find it, but this is certainly a bit of rally driving we're doing here getting to her house. My goodness. We found her house. OK. Well, we're here. Which I never thought I I really thought it was really lovely. The idea was nice, and next time I'm in Wales, I'll give you a call so really, it's it's better than I thought better than I thought. Anyway, so you're leading me off with your two dogs. Kate: I am. I am. I'm leading you off into one of the most beautiful I think I mean, obviously I'm a little bit biased but it is one of the most important areas of ancient woodland in Britain. This is the Wye Valley. We're the lower Wye valley, so we are the the the the bit really where the River Wye is in its sort of last bit of its journey. It's risen in mid Wales, about 136 miles from here. I know that cause I've walked the whole route. Adam: Really, we're not doing that today, are we? Kate: No we're not no I promise. I promise Adam. So yes and we are basically about 5 or 6 miles from where it flows into the River Severn and then out into the Bristol Channel and the woods around here are a lovely mix of broadleaf, so we're walking through broadleaf woodland now and this is literally this is what I walk out of my front door. Aren't I lucky? Adam: You are lucky. Kate: I'm so lucky. So we've got a lovely mix of broadleaf woodland now and we're just coming into that time of year. Which is the time of year that makes everybody's spirits lift, because we are coming into spring, and if we actually just stop just for a second. You can hear that's a blue tit calling *imitates sound* and I mean, this isn't the perfect day for birdsong, but the birdsong was really picking up. And that's the lovely thing about living alongside woodland. So even in the winter, even when you don't think there are any birds at all, what you hear in these words is *imitates sound* that's a very, very bad impression of a great spotted woodpecker. Adam: OK, I'm glad you. I I was guessing it might be a woodpecker, but I didn't want to. Kate: So they start to drum around about sort of late January, they'll be drumming. And and then as the and we also have tawny owls, lots of tawny owls in these woods. We've got an owl box and we used to have an owl that we called Percy who we have no idea whether it was a boy or girl. Adam: I was gonna say it was, a reason it was called Percy? Kate: Don't know, just it just it looked like a Percy. Adam: Just fancied the name. Fair enough. Yeah. Yeah. Kate: But we have lovely tawny owls here. So, you know, at dusk and and when when I take the dogs out sort of last thing at night round about 10 o'clock 11:00 o'clock at night we walk down this track and and you stand here and you hear this wonderful and everyone thinks you know, tawny owls go toowit toowoo. They're the classic toowit toowoo owls, but actually you've got 2 owls calling, so you've got the male going *imitates noise* and then you have the females going *imitates noise*. And they're calling each other, establishing territories or going ooh I like the sound of you, there's a bit of flirting going on. So these are, as I say really it's it's just the biggest treat to live with this on my doorstep. Adam: Right, so fantastic. You you clearly I mean, you've launched into a sort of fantastic description and detailed knowledge, but you are not a country girl by birth are you? Kate: No, I am a country girl by birth. Adam: Oh you are? I though you were born in London? Kate: I am. No. Well, I was you're right, I was I was Adam: Sorry, do I know where you were born and you don't. Kate: Well, being born and where you were brought up is different. Adam: Yeah, OK. OK, fair enough. Kate: So I was, you're absolutely right, I was born in London. I was born in well, I was born in Wimbledon in fact. This is my neighbour by the way. Adam: Right. Right. Wow. I didn't, we're in the middle of nowhere I didn't know there'd be a neighbour. Kate: I know, but I know. But there are other people mad enough to live in these woods, and he's particularly mad. Adam: OK. Does he mind you saying that? Kate: Not at all. Not at all. No. He's absolutely used to it. Hello. Come and say hello to the Woodland Trust podcast. Adam: No. OK, I'm just checking. OK. Hi, I'm Adam. Hi. Nice to see you. Yeah, I hear you're her neighbour. Kate: This is this is this is writer Mark Mccrum and his dog Jabba. Yes. So I'm just dragging Adam down to take a look at the ponds and talking about the ponds down there. Mark: Oh lovely. Which ponds? Kate: The ponds down there. Mark: Oh those ones? Yeah, very good. I might see you on the reverse cause I'm gonna go all the way round. Kate: Oh you're gonna go round. OK, fine. Lovely. Mark: These are lovely woods cause you never see anybody here. *all laugh* Adam: I'm sorry. Kate: Apart from you Adam: I was gonna say, and me, I've ruined it. Kate: Yeah we're the only people who see each other aren't we. Adam: So you were telling me you are you are born in Wimbledon, but you you grew up in the country then? Kate: Yeah. So I was I was born in Wimbledon and yes. So after about, I think I was about six months old, my mother always says that she realised that London was clearly not the place for me and Adam: From six months? Outward bound baby were you? Kate: Yes! She said she said there basically wasn't enough space in London for me. So so yes, so I was brought up in Berkshire, right? And I was brought up next to a farm. So I was always a sort of vicariously farming kid. Even though my parents weren't farmers and and spent my childhood looking after various animals of various descriptions, and I think the wonderful thing about being the age I am, so everyone bemoans being old, but I think I just I I am so thankful that I was born in the sixties. Adam: Why? Kate: Because no one had invented health and safety, climbing trees, no one had climbing frames, you climbed trees. And I think the trees enjoyed it, and so did you. And if you hadn't fallen out of quite a lot of trees by the time you were 10 and had various, you know, scars or broken bits as proof of a proper childhood, it wasn't a proper childhood. Adam: Right. OK. Kate: So I had a lovely proper childhood of, you know, not being plonked in front of a screen of some description or another. We're going to cut off piste a little bit and head down here. Adam: OK, I'm is this a precursor warning that I'm about to get bumps and scrapes and? Kate: This is a precursor warning that you might yes, you might. It's quite a steep descent. Adam: OK just as long as my, my face is my fortune though, as long as that's safeguarded throughout this, that'll be fine. OK. Well, that's good. Yeah. Lots of leaves around. Yeah. Kate: Of course it will be a soft landing whatever you say. Lots of leaves. One of the nice things again about broadleaf woodland. And as you can see, I'm sure your leaf identification is brilliant, but we've got a lovely mix of oak here and beech, as well as the evergreen so the hollies and lovely, lovely mosses. But yes, what you're walking on is is a sort of glorious mulchy carpet, but we have a profusion of bluebells. Adam: Already they've come up? Kate: Well the bluebells, the the plants themselves have come up so the leaves are up and there are one or two I'm going to show you, is it, will it be your first bluebell of the year? Adam: It, almost, almost we we can pretend it is for dramatic purposes. Let's let's go along. Kate: OK, OK. They are, they're just, they're just starting to come here now and and you get that lovely moment. It'll be about probably about three weeks or a month's time, slightly depending on on what the weather does, where you get the, the unfurling of the beech trees. So that glorious kind of neon green which when the light goes through you get that sort of wonderful, almost disco light effect show. Adam: And aren't they in Welsh, aren't they called cuckoos? The Welsh translation for bluebells is cuckoo clock. I think it's because it's like it's a harbinger of spring along with the cuckoo. Kate: Oh, I didn't know that. Adam: Oh my God, I found something you didn't know. Kate: You know, you know, you'll know lots, I don't know, but Adam: No, no, let's hope that's true that's that's I'll have to go check that. Do check that before you tell anybody. Kate: Well, I'll just blame you. Adam: But no, I do think in Welsh the translation for Bluebell is is cuckoo clock or something like that because it is this harbinger of spring and I think that's it's a really nice I I won't even try the Welsh but in Welsh it sounds very so I mean, I thought we were going to chat about your conversion to nature and everything, but actually that's a lot of nonsense. This is this has been a constant in your life? Kate: Well, it's been, I mean, coming to Wales, so I did live in London, you know, after I left home. Adam: Except, I mean, you didn't choose a a nature career, did you? I mean, you you're involved now we can talk about that. But first, what was your first career? Kate: Well, I mean. Career always seems such a grand word and that you've planned it. Adam: Yeah. OK, so your accidental career. Kate: So my accidental career, well, I had this idea that that I that I wanted to work in television, although again I don't really know where that came from. We're going just down here. Part of me also wanted to be a a safari guide. Adam: Good. I can see the appeal of that. Kate: I went to I when I was 19 having never really been abroad at all, because again, our generation didn't really go abroad as a matter of course. So I went to Africa when I was 19 and. Adam: Sorry we're not talking on a holiday? Kate: No it was a well it was a it was probably a rebellion. Adam: Right. You went as far away as your your parents as you could. I'm not going out for the evening I'm popping off to Africa? Kate: Yes, yes. I'm popping off to Africa and I don't know when I'll be back. One of those. Adam: Right. Yeah, good. Good exit line. So where, where, where in Africa were you and what were you doing there? Kate: So I I started in South Africa. I ended up in Egypt. Adam: Right, just bumming around doing sort of bar work or doing something more serious? Kate: I did I did I was a waitress for a little bit, but I was very, very bad and was sacked. I I was a model for a little bit, also very bad, very bad at that too. Adam: Why were you so bad at that? Kate: Because because I really don't like having my photograph taken and I really like food. Adam: Yes, OK well I would I would have guessed I could have advised you that wasn't the career for you. Kate: So so the two things, yeah, didn't really weren't terribly compatible to that. But I then got a job as a cook and a driver on a safari, and I drove a truck aged 19, having never really been out of Berkshire, from Cape Town, through Botswana and into Zimbabwe. And and then I hitched back to Cape Town. So I had a a real adventure. But what I what it really did for me was, having had this very sort of unconsciously wild childhood, I don't mean you know lots of parties and taking drugs I mean, a natural wild childhood, I then went to a place where the natural world was was so extraordinary and so mindblowing, and on a scale, you know, everything was was was like technicolour. You know, the birds were amazing. The the you know the the the size of the animals, the proliferation of the wildlife, the size of the landscapes, the emptiness and I think it was that journey that turned my mind to really re-look and re-examine the natural world and think it's, you know, it's extraordinary, it's it's mind blowing in every way and so even though I then came back and thought I want to have this sort of career in telly what I really wanted to do in my career in telly was work for the natural history unit. Adam: Right. And is that what you did? Kate: No. Not initially anyway. Adam: OK, but you have done, I mean you've done nature programmes, lots of nature programmes. What did you first start doing? Kate: We're going down here. I have. So I first started sweeping streets in the East End. Adam: In EastEnders? Kate: No, in the East End, no. I was a runner so I basically got jobs wherever I could get jobs and I got a job on a commercial that happened to be shooting in the East End and they needed the streets swept and so that was one of my jobs. But had no plans to be on the telly that that really did happen by mistake. Adam: I think you know my first job in telly. I don't know if you remember That's Life with Esther Rantzen. Do you remember they she always had rude, funny vegetables? Kate: I do, yes Adam: That was my job to find them, yeah so only only marginally above the street sweeping. Kate: Oh my goodness! Adam: So you got how did you get picked there? I mean, we gotta get back to the natural world. But you've had such such a fantastic life. So I mean, I think people will be fascinated to know you have not much of even a vague plan about what you're doing. You're fumbling about a bit. Kate: None, yeah. Living in a squat. Eating crisps. Adam: So yeah, right. So not many models will be will be living like that and eating crisps, I get that You're sweeping streets as your way into telly, all of a sudden you're on telly. How did that happen, was that more of a plan or did someone just turn around and go, hey, you, street sweeper, you'll do? Kate: No, it wasn't. So I had I had graduated from street sweeper, so it took about probably four four or five years I have become by now a sort of senior researcher. And I got a job at the BBC. My first job at the BBC on a programme called Animal Hospital. Adam: Right. Yes. And you were still a researcher there or presenter? Kate: Yeah, as a researcher. And and I think the reason that I got the job was actually my childhood. Because I think it was the first series, in fact, I think the only series that they did of Animal Hospital in a rural practice. So we went to a practice that didn't just do small animals, pets type animals, but also bigger animals like farm animals and horses and I think the only reason I got the job was that I was the only person they interviewed who knew what to do with something bigger than a hamster. Adam: Right ok great. Kate: And I had my own wellies. Adam: Oh good. Always important for a career in telly, your own wellies, see these are the secrets people wanna know. Good. So you've got your wellies? Kate: Always really, really important. They are. So I got that job I got that researcher job. And at the end of it, the BBC do this appraisal thing. And they said we thought you were alright, you did OK, will you come back and do the next series and I said I'd absolutely love to. I'd really loved it, absolutely loved it. Can we just pause here a minute because this, Adam: A sea of wild garlic? Kate: No, these are bluebells. Adam: These are bluebells? Oh, sorry. Look at the ignorance here. Kate: These are bluebells. Well, those white flowers let me show you these because they're beautiful. Adam: I thought like I I think that's what I thought was wild garlic shows you *unintelligible* OK, we've got a proper safari expert. Kate: No. So look, look, look, look, look, look, look, look, look, first bluebell starting to unfurl except my dog's just walked all over it. Come on you're not supposed to walk on there. Adam: So this is, all of this is bluebells? Kate: So all of this will be bluebells and in about 3 weeks time you get this absolutely, it's so blue it's like the colour actually detaches itself from the flowers and floats above it in this sort of glorious mist, it's beautiful. But this these flowers here I love. And these are these are one of the flowers along with celandines which are the kind of waxy yellow flowers that people will see in woodlands and even in their gardens at this time of year, these are wood anemones. And they are lovely, very delicate white flowers with these slightly sort of hand-like leaves and the lovely thing about these, they're not looking at their best at the moment because it's been quite a wet day. But when the sun's out, they open to the sun like these brilliant white stars. And sometimes there are areas around here where you'll see carpets of wood anemones and they're one of the first I've seen these as early as January, although not this year because we had lots of frosts. Adam: It's funny you, you, you, you use the word magical I'm just looking at this tree with covered in moss and everything, there is something magical about these sorts of places, a sort of sense of, sense of, a Tolkien type moment isnt there?. Kate: Absolutely. Absolutely. I've I I don't think it is a coincidence that lots of fairytales are set in woodlands because there is something otherworldly about them. We're going to head keep heading down just so that you have a really good climb on the way up. Adam: Yeah, I was gonna say I'm fine going down, I'm assuming you're sending a car to pick me up? It's well a little, a little Uber will just I'm sure, Kate: Nice try, Adam! Lots of Ubers around here. Look, look, look. Adam: Oh look now that is OK that's a proper bluebell. Kate: That is a, a, a bluebell that's a proper bluebell. Adam: Yeah, that is my first proper bluebell of the year. Kate: And you can see all the others are just starting to come. Adam: And that's and it is lovely because clearly so few people come here that's the problem often with bluebells is when people trample all over them. And we've got just one clean path down here and it's completely undisturbed for as far as the eye can see. So yes, we OK, we we did a little pit stop for bluebells. We're back on and the what was the programme, animal? Kate: Animal Animal Hospital. Adam: Animal Hospital. So they wanted you back as a researcher. I'm interested in the jump from behind the screen to on screen. Kate: So so they basically said lovely we'll see you in four months and I said oh well, I've got a landlord and rent to pay, I can't not work for four months. I'm going to have to get another job and it may mean that I'm not available. And they said ohh well, maybe we can find you something else within the BBC as a stopgap. And I had also at that point, so this is the mid 90s now, started writing. I was writing travel. And I'd spent at the the a end of a a, the second Africa trip that I did between 94 and 95, I'd spent the last two months of that in Madagascar. Adam: Right. Kate: Madagascar was a place that I was obsessed with because of its wildlife because it has unique flora and fauna. I came back and got an article commissioned to write about it, and it was the first, Adam: Your first commission? Kate: Yes, my first commission and my first article, and it was in a broad a broadsheet newspaper, and I was very excited and very proud about that. And so when I was asked by the series producer of the BBC Holiday programme, whether I would consider coming to work for them because I was a travel writer, Adam: Right OK, yeah, you're now a travel writer because of your one article. Kate: I am I am now a I am now a travel writer on the strength of one of one article. Adam: Whoa oh Kate, I'm so glad you were the first person to sort of go over *Kate laughs* That was before me I just want that on record. Kate: Yeah. Adam: OK so I haven't gone over yet. Kate: You haven't got over yet. Adam: OK. Yeah. Sorry. Yeah. Kate: Yes. So I got a job on the BBC Holiday programme. Anyway the next day I got called into the big boss's office. And I assumed that my short lived career at the BBC Holiday programme was about to be ended because I wasn't quite sure why, but perhaps because I hadn't been taking the producers guidelines as seriously as I might and that also I had smoked on a fire escape, which probably wasn't a good idea. And instead I was asked to do a screen test and I assumed that this was the sort of common test that the Holiday programme did and I tried to say I really don't want to be a presenter thank you, I love doing, I love making the programmes, I love the research, I love talking to people, I love putting things together. I'm quite, I like logistics. I'm quite, you know, I like all that stuff I don't want to be a presenter. And they went well do a do a screen test. So at this point I just thought I've just got to get out of this office because I feel very embarrassed by the whole situation. So I will just nod smile say yes, do it, it'll be a disaster, and then everything can go back to normal. So that's what I did. Three weeks later, the boss came into the office, Adam: Sorry, we have to stop. This is a story that's gonna last all day, cause I keep stopping because your dog is posing or it was posing beautifully by this river. Kate: Well, so this river is an important, one of the sort of parallel streams that run into the River Wye for this is the Angidy, we are in the Angidy Valley, surrounded by amazing woodland on both sides, it's a very steep sided valley. This river is particularly good for dippers, which are those lovely chocolate brown and white birds, they look like little waiters. Adam: Right *laughs* Kate: And they and they, they're called dippers because that's exactly what they do. So we'll keep an eye out because we might see some, but they'll sit on a stone like that exposed stone within the waterfall there and they will jump into the water and literally completely submerge. They'll disappear completely and they're looking for things like caddisfly larva, which is what they feed on, and then they'll bob up and come back up and they're they're just these wonderful, perky, very smart little birds. Adam: Brilliant, OK. Kate: They're the only British songbird that is also a water bird. Adam: Wow, OK, good. All right. Kate: There you are, little bit of, little bit of, Adam: No, I like these these these sorts of diversions we take, it's it's almost like doing a stand up routine, so we're gonna go gonna go back to the story now. So you thought everybody in the world gets a screen test. So I'm just doing this and then they'll leave me alone. Kate: Yes, yes. And and then the boss came into the office about 3 weeks later. And she said, can you go to France tomorrow? And I said yes, of course, assuming that they needed somebody to carry the heavy stuff. Bhcause carrying heavy stuff is the other thing that I am good at. I can whistle very loudly and I can carry very heavy things and those are really the only two things that I can offer the world. Adam: OK, I I you, you have set yourself up for a big whistle at the end, so we'll we'll wait for that then let's hold out. Kate: It it will blow your ears well, that's all I'm saying. So she said, we want you to present a film on a barge in Normandy, could you please do something about my hair, she said. My own hair. Adam: I see she didn't ask you to be a hairdresser? Also could you cut my hair? Kate: Yes could you cut my hair *laughs*. No, could you do something about your hair, she said. I thought she's been talking to my mum, who constantly despairs of my lack of my lack of grooming. Adam: Right, also right at this point of hair hair disasters, we have to pause because we've come across as you may hear an extraordinary small waterfall, it's a weir, really, isn't it? Kate: It is really. Adam: I'm gonna take another photo of this before we get back to the life and misadventures of Kate Humble. So I'm just gonna take a photo. You'll find that, no doubt on one of our Twitter feeds. Oh, I know beautiful, oh no the dogs disappeared, the dog doesn't like posing for me. But all right, so now, you're off to France. You need a haircut and, Kate: So I'm off to France. I need I need I need to basically smarten myself up. Off I went to France and presented my first film. Adam: Right. And that was, I mean, we could talk about this forever, but that was the beginning of that was the beginning of this, the story. OK, well, amazing. Kate: Yes. My first job for the natural history unit came in 2000. And I was asked to do a programme, which was a sort of, was made in response to Blue Planet. So the very first series of the Blue Planet, which I think everybody watched with their mouths open because we had never seen the oceans in that way before, particularly the deep ocean. And there was a phrase used which I have used many, many times since, which was that more people have been to the moon than there have been to the deep ocean. And people were fascinated by these, they were they were creatures that looked like they might have been designed for Star Wars. They were so extraordinary. Adam: These sort of angler fish which have which have this light don't they. Kate: That sort of thing, and these these, you know, these astonishing, you know, plankton with flashing lights, there were Dumbo octopus with, you know, little octopus with these sort of literally did look like Dumbo the elephant, you know, deep water sharks that people had never seen before that were really slow moving and and, you know astonishingly well-adapted to live at depths and in in at water pressure that no one thought anything could exist in and come on dogs we're gonna keep, do you wanna have a, Adam: And so yours was a response, in what way? Kate: So we did a live, Adam: The dogs keep looking at me like they want me to throw something for them is that what's going on? Kate: They do, and I'm going to just try and find a, here let's try let's try this, here we are. Adam: Look, they're very, oh you've thrown it into the river? Kate: Go on, in you go. Adam: Oh, look at that go! Kate: Come on Teg, do you wanna go in as well? Here you are. This one's going to sink, go on. Ready? Go. Good girl. Where's it gone? Teggy, it's just there. That's it. Well done, well done, dogs. Adam: Oh they like that. Kate: Well, I can't go and get it, you have to bring it here, that's the deal with sticks *laughs* So we did a live programme from a boat in Monterey Bay. I made some films to play into that live show. So I went to the Cayman Islands, which is a rotten thing to ask anybody to do, can you imagine? Adam: Terrible, terrible. You wanted to be back in the East End really. Kate: I did really, sweeping streets and instead there I was, doing films about coral reefs and this is the one of, this is the wonderful thing about the natural history unit or just about making films with animals is the lengths that you have to go to to be able to capture the natural world in all its wonder. And so I was asked to go and film a shark called a six gill shark that lives very deep and only about 10 people in the world had ever seen. And I was sent to go and find this creature. You know, I can't I can't even now I can't really believe that I was asked to do that. Adam: And did you find it? Kate: Eventually. We had to do two, we did one trip we failed to find it, Adam: How how long was that? Kate: So that was, we did 6 dives. It was an amazing trip. We didn't get the shark on the first trip. We went back for another trip. We didn't get it. We didn't get it. We finally got it and it was incredible. Incredible moment. And that was the first job that I did for the natural history unit and there was then somebody who came up with the idea of doing British wildlife life live at kind of springtime, like kind of now. Adam: And this was Springwatch was it? Kate: This was the precursor to Springwatch. Adam: Oh I didn't know there was one. Kate: There were two! Adam: What were they called? Kate: So the first one was called Wild In Your Garden. So I'm just going to put the dogs on a lead here. Hold on, poppet. Just hold on my poppet. That's it. We've got to take Adam up the hill now. So yes, so the first one was called Wild In Your Garden and it was Bill Oddie and Simon King and me. And we did two shows a night, from gardens in Bristol, and it sort of worked as an idea. Adam: Right. OK. Kate: It worked well enough or it wasn't so much of a disaster that there wasn't a thought of let's try it slightly differently, maybe on a farm instead of in the garden, and we went to this wonderful organic farm in Devon and basically made camp for three weeks. And made a series called Britain Goes Wild. And Britain went a tiny bit wild. And so the following year we thought, well, we'll do it again, but maybe we'll just call it something different. Adam: Right. Kate: And someone came up with the idea of calling it spring watch and everyone said, and it always went out at the same time as it does now, sort of end of May and people go, it's not really spring though is it? And we're like, well spring enough, still spring things happening and Springwatch seemed to capture everybody's imaginations and and I presented that for 10 years. Adam: And you presented that for how many, how many years? Kate: Ten. Adam: Blimey! That's a long, Kate: Yeah, I know. I've just grown old on telly and then Autumnwatch came into being and then Winterwatch and I did Seawatch. So I did a series about British Britain's seas and and marine life. Yeah. So I did eventually get my wish of working for the natural history unit. Adam: Oh, that's very good. The fairy godmother in the form of the BBC descended and granted your wish. And now from all of those adventures abroad and on TV and everything you then said, I'm gonna move to this really quite, there's another car coming, quite quite remote parts of Wales. Why that? Kate: We're going to head up here. Hold on, dogs. There we are. Adam: Oh there's some steps. Hallelujah. Kate: OK, only for this little bit. Adam: Look, stop stop taking away the hope. Kate: *laughs* So so I we moved, Adam: Yes so you you picked up sticks and then moved to Wales. Perhaps it's not such a big move because the natural world has seemed to be always the centre of things for you. So but why Wales in particular? Kate: Well, that is a curious question. I had no connection with Wales as far as I was aware. I honestly honestly can't tell you why I felt this extraordinary pull to live here. But it really was it was like a magnetic pull. There is actually a a Welsh word and I'm not sure I'm really allowed to use it in my context, but I can't think of a better word to use for the feeling that I had. And it's hiraeth and is a word that it's sort of more than home sickness. It's like a deep longing for the place that you belong. A yearning, a pit of the stomach emptiness for your home. Adam: You felt this was a spiritual home, did you? Kate: I don't know I really don't know, Adam. I, as I say I just had this extraordinary pull to live here. And yeah, I would look at the, there are these old fashioned things called maps, and I would look at the A to Z of Great Britain. And you know, there I was in the South East and if you look at a thing called a map, Adam: Yes, sorry is this a point about me getting lost on the way to you. Kate: No no not even remotely. No, it's the fact that no one uses them anymore, and yet, they're the greatest treasures we have. So if you look at a map, the South East of England is just this chaos of colour and roads and towns and names. And it's just, you know, there's not a square millimetre that hasn't got a name in it or something in. The further west you go, the browner the map becomes, and when you go over the border into Wales, it's mainly brown and green and it's got beautiful lyrical names like Abergavenny and and it's got mountains and mountains, when you've been brought up in Berkshire mountains are the height of exoticism. To live in a in a country that had mountains all of its own just struck me as being remarkable. I still, 15 years on, find it remarkable that I can I can get up at breakfast, not go terribly far, and climb a bona fide mountain. I love that. And that's what I love about Wales. Adam: And and you've done more than, I mean, people might feel that and move to a beautiful part of the country and live there and more or less carry on with their ordinary life. But you've not done that. I mean, you're not just you don't just go for walks, the natural world is something you've created a a new career out of as well. Is that fair? Kate: I wouldn't call it a career. Adam: OK but you're very much well, but you make money from it and it fills your days. Kate: Well, no, no, I don't think I don't know I don't I don't think that's I don't think that's true at all. I think you know I my working life is peculiar. I've I still am involved making television programmes, some of which involve the natural world. I still write, some of that's about the natural world, but not all of it. The natural world for me is nothing to do with making a living. Making a living. But it is about living. And it was one of the things that I was acutely aware of when I lived in London was I felt cut off from the seasons. This year you know, I know I can tell you that I didn't hear a skylark until the middle of March last year it was Valentine's Day. I can tell you that because that's what I'm experiencing. And I love feeling that instead of the natural world being something I watch on the television or I read about in a book that I am able to be part of it. And that's one of the big problems I think that we face now with trying to engage people with the importance of things like biodiversity, species loss, habitat loss. None of those things sound very sexy, and none of those things appear to matter to us because we as a species so weirdly and inexplicably view ourselves as a species separate from the natural world and the natural world has become something that we just watch for our entertainment. But we are just another mammal in this amazingly complex, beautiful, brilliant web that is the biodiversity web, where everything fits in and everything works together, and one thing feeds another thing and you know, until we feel properly part of that, immersed in it and and wrapped up in it, why are we ever going to worry about the fact that it is now a biodiversity net that's full of holes, and those holes mean that the net becomes less and less effective and the less effective that net becomes, the more it affects us, but we see ourselves as somehow immune from that process and we're not. And what I love about living here, what I love about walking in this area every day, twice a day, is the fact that I feel that I can, I'm I'm more in tune with our natural world and that is sadly, it shouldn't feel a it shouldn't be a privilege, but it is. Adam: And do you feel, I mean, you're you feel passionate about it. Do you feel evangelical about it? Kate: Yes. Adam: So what do you, do you have a prescription to help to bring others on side? Kate: I wish it didn't, I wish you didn't have to ask me that question. I wish it didn't have to be an on side. Adam: Do you do you feel that's an unfair question? Or do you think there's? Kate: No, I don't. I think it's a very fair question because lots of people don't feel or don't perhaps don't experience it experience the advantages of the natural world, or they haven't been they haven't been given the opportunities to properly understand the impact that it can have on us and all those impacts are positive. I mean, there's loads of science. And you know, it was talked about endlessly during the pandemic about how green spaces are good for our mental health, blue spaces are good for our mental health, being outdoors, being in nature, listening to birdsong, sing plants grow, all those things are good for us. But we've got to a place where we've been so divorced from it, where we look for our pleasures in shopping malls and online and and we forget that actually all we need is right here. And, you know, it's a hard sell for some to to somebody who's never experienced this, who hasn't had the privileges I've undoubtedly had, you know who have not grown up in the countryside, who find it fearful or boring or inexplicable, don't understand where they fit in. Adam: And I think one of the perhaps growing debates, I think or interesting ones anyway for me is is the balance between trying to either scare people or make them aware of the environmental challenges and potential for disaster. And then so to sort of go engage with the subject it's really it's really newsworthy, it's it's it's imperative people do things and actually turning people off going well we're we're all going to literally burn, enjoy the party whilst it lasts. So what what do you feel about that? Kate: Yeah, yeah. I mean, all all, all you have to do, all you have to do is watch Don't Look Up. Have you seen that film? Adam: Yes. Kate: And and and that, you know, absolutely embodies what you have just said. Adam: So what do you think about that? Because I think there's a balance between going, offering hope, the power or audacity of hope is a phrase one hears as opposed to the sort of potential to frighten people into action. Actually the opposite, don't frighten them into action. Offer them hope of change. And I wonder where you feel that, if we've got that balance right, or whether, Kate: No, we haven't got it right and I, but I don't know what the balance is because I think there's a real, I think that a lot of programmes that are made about natural history now have become so glossy and so beautiful and and so almost otherworldly that they don't actually reflect the reality of the natural world. And a lot of them again show the natural world without the context of people. And of course, that's sort of how we want to see it, we don't want people muddying those pictures. We don't want, as you say, the kind of the awful stories of the litter and the, you know, the the, the, the negative impact that human have humans have had on the natural environment. So we kind of don't want to see it, but equally if we don't see it, we don't engage with it and we kind of can watch one of those documentaries and even if David Attenborough is telling you that, you know, this is a habitat that's in peril or this is the last animal of its type that you will ever see, you don't really take that in because you're looking at these really stunning pictures and you think it's kind of OK. But I don't know what the answer is because I also know that as you say, if all you peddle is hopelessness and helplessness, no one's going to engage, they're going to stick their heads in the sand and just hope that it all goes away and pass it on to the next generation. So somehow we as communicators need to find a way that really does cut through. That really does make people feel, genuinely feel part of the natural world, that it isn't just another thing. I had the great joy of interviewing Tim Peake not that long ago, and I was interviewing him for a book that I'm writing about the concept of home. And I thought he would have, of anybody, a really unique idea of home having not just left home but left the planet. And he told me that he did a spacewalk, he was out in space for over four hours, and he said the blackness is like a blackness you cannot imagine. But he said, you know, you see Mars and Jupiter and Venus and you see Earth. And he said, when you're there, amongst the planets in that way you see that Earth is, as far as anyone's experience, and any telescope has been able to tell us, unique. You look at it and he said there it is, this colour, this blue and green planet, whereas everything else is, you know silver and and ghostly, ours is a living planet and he said he had this, he had this sort of feeling when he was there looking at Earth and imagining somebody, some other being coming up and tapping him on the shoulder and saying hey, hi, who are you? I'm Tim. And he'd say oh hello so where are you from then? And Tim said I felt this enormous swell of pride to be able to point to our planet and say I'm from that planet there. I'm from Earth. I'm an earthling and I thought if all of us had that experience, could understand what it was like, how special our planet is in a universe that is infinite as far as we know and that we have, we have no idea what's out there, but what we do know at the moment is that our planet is unique and I think we would treasure it that much more and have moments like this of just standing amongst the trees and midges coming out, the drizzle, the mud and go, this is our home, this is where we live. It's really special. Aren't we lucky? Adam: You're taking me uphill again aren't you. Kate: I am taking uphill, but you've done the worst bit and you and and actually you marched. I was impressed! Adam: Oh OK good. You know I'll fall apart after, I'm just doing it so I don't embarrass myself too badly. Kate: *laughs* I'm afraid it is going to get very, very muddy, so you're going to have wet socks, mud up to your knees, you know, that's why I spend six months of the year in wellies. Adam: Right OK. But you know, that is the privilege of being an earthling, isn't it? Kate: It is it is. Adam: So you've been you've got involved with the Woodland Trust. Kate: I've been involved with the Woodland Trust for quite a long time, but it really started when we took on a farm near here. Adam: What's this an arable farm? Kate: No, it was a small council farm. It belonged to the council and people are not really aware that there are such a thing. Adam: I've never heard this one. Kate: No, but there used to be about 16,000 council farms throughout Britain and they were set up as part of the 1906 Smallholdings and Allotments Act and they were there, low rent, small areas, usually 30, 40 acres that sort of size and they would be available to rent for farmers who for whatever reason, didn't have a farm of their own. And over the years, as farming practices have changed as economic models have driven farmers to need to to produce things on a bigger scale, small farms have been basically relegated to either hobby farms or they've been broken up and sold to land that's been added to bigger farms. So we've lost an enormous number of these small farms and with them an enormous opportunity for people with farming skills to stay on the land and produce as food. And that's what was going to happen to this farm. And for whatever reason, I just felt this was not the thing to do and to cut a very, very, very long story short, we ended up taking over the farm and setting up a rural skills centre o prove that a small farm, ours is just over 100 acres, could still be viable. It supports itself and that's really important. But one of the things that we wanted to do, we were really interested to do when we took it over was to add more trees. It's it's got some wonderful ancient trees. There's an oak tree on the farm that we call Old Man Oak, as did the tenants before us. They introduced us to him and we think he's about 600 years old. And but we wanted to plant more trees. But we had this conundrum of how do we increase the tree cover on the farm without taking away the pasture because obviously we needed the pasture for the livestock and it was the Woodland Trust that helped us with that conundrum. So they looked, together we walked round the farm and we identified either areas where there were small copses or where there was a bit of a hedge. So what we did with the Woodland Trust's advice and input was to put in trees as shelter breaks, so not actually impinging on the pasture, just or very much, but adding a kind of a thicker bit of hedge if you like, or making a copse a little bit bigger and in that way we've planted over 1,000 trees on the farm in the last decade that we've had it. And then at home we have a four acre small holding and and so at the beginning of last year I started thinking maybe it's an age thing, you start thinking about legacy and when you when you take over a piece of land, what you start to understand actually very quickly is that you will never own it, that you are simply the caretaker of it for the time that you are around. And I think we've got cleverer now. Our knowledge has become greater. We understand that just planting trees isn't the answer. We need to think about we need to think of landscape as a mosaic and so what we wanted to do was to create a little mosaic. Plant trees, create water or make a space for water, make sure that there was going to be areas that had glade that was good for insects, that was good for wild flowers. And so I talked to the Woodland Trust and said, are you going to be into this idea, because it's not just planting trees and they went, that's exactly what we're into. That's exactly what we want to do. We want to create habitat. It's not about blanketing a landscape with trees. It's about planting the right trees in the right places at the right density to create something that you know, in a generation's time will have real lasting value, and that's what's been so wonderful about working with, you know, an organisation like that that sees big picture, sees longevity as as an advantage rather than as a disadvantage. And and that's what's been so lovely is that, you know, I can go to them and say so I've got this plan. I mean, I'm not even going to be alive to see it kind of come to fruition but do you care? And they went, we don't care, do you care? No. Let's do it. And that's wonderful. Adam: Wonderful. OK sorry, this is a bit, this is the bit where I'm going ohh well, I'm swimming effectively swimming now. Kate: Sorry. This is a very wet bit. Adam: Hold on a second. OK. Right. That's a very Norman Wisdom walk I seem to have. OK. Yeah. OK, so ohh sorry, hold on. Kate: It gets, that's the that's the wettest bit now, now we're now we're more or less home and dry. Adam: Oh well you know what we we might be home, but we are not dry. That would be inaccurate at this point. So well, that's a neat story to bring us back to home with isn't it. So you know things are looking good. It's all hopeful. A a long journey and a long one ahead, you know, not just for you, but for that natural world you're creating. Kate: Well, I hope that you know the the I I think going back to to what you said about how we can, we can help us all feel that we are actually, you know part and parcel of the natural world rather than observers of it or visitors of it and things like planting trees or being aware of the seasonal joys of the bluebells coming through, or, you know the leaf fall in the autumn and the colour, all those things if if i you know if we can build that awareness that brings with it huge joy and reward, then maybe we'll start to cut through again and people will start to feel more like the natural world is their world and not just another part of the planet that they live on. Adam: Well having arrived back at Kate's home, let me just say there are lots more woodland walk podcasts for you to enjoy wherever you get your podcasts from. And indeed, if you want to find an actual wood near you well, you can go to the Woodland Trust website www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/findawood. Until next time, happy wandering. Thank you for listening to the Woodland Trust Woodland Walks with Adam Shaw. Join us next month, when Adam will be taking another walk in the company of Woodland Trust staff, partners and volunteers. Don't forget to subscribe to the series on iTunes or wherever you're listening to us and do give us a review and a rating. And why not send us a recording of your favourite woodland walk to be included in a future podcast? Keep it to a maximum of five minutes and please tell us what makes your woodland walk special or send us an e-mail with details of your favourite walk and what makes it special to you. Send any audio files to podcast@woodlandtrust.org.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.

Episode 59 - Sabrina: Goddess of the River Severn

Bristol History Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2023 24:13

The Severn is the longest river in the UK and from its source in the Cambrian mountains in mid Wales, it flows down through Shropshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire before eventually reaching the Bristol Channel. I met with Nicola Haasz, who has dedicated herself to exploring, collating and informing about the many facets of the Severn - including of course Sabrina - her associated goddess. We discussed the origin myths of Sabrina and the different cultural responses that the River Severn has elicited throughout its history.

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Episode 373: Lake Tahoe Circumnavigation; River Severn Coracle Paddle; Canoe Gardens

Paddling Adventures Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2023 63:20

Episode 373 ~ April 13, 2023 Podcast Info / Topics Fun and education as you circumnavigate Lake Tahoe in a kayak with scientists Anyone can paddle 60 miles in a canoe or kayak, but try it in a coracle One canoe garden in Toronto was just the start of something much larger

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Episode 373: Lake Tahoe Circumnavigation; River Severn Coracle Paddle; Canoe Gardens

Paddling Adventures Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2023 63:20

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An Art Walk in the Forest of Dean

Ramblings

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2023 24:33

Sara Rickard takes groups of local people on a walk through the forest to write, draw and take photographs and simply observe their surroundings. Canopy Arts was set up during Covid when the artists who live in the forest found themselves especially isolated and now runs monthly or fortnightly walks for both seasoned artists and walkers who want to be creatively inspired by the magical atmosphere of this part of the world. Sharon who moved there a year ago is fascinated by what she calls the edgeland that this area is. Sandwiched between the River Severn and the River Wye, the Forest of Dean is actually in Gloucestershire but sometimes feels as though it should be in Wales. It has a long history of free mining and Foresters are traditionally independent in spirit. Clare taps into her own artistic side and joins the group painting with feathers, writing about the landscape and rubbing gravestones. Producer: Maggie Ayre

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24. Meet Anselm Guise, the aristocratic trance music aficionado, turned owner of stunning country estate Elmore Court, near Gloucester.

Visitor Elves

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2023 33:58

Send us a textToday's podcast episode is with an aristocratic festival organiser, techno DJ and producer, who has combined his passion for entertainment with his love of the environment in his family home on the River Severn in Gloucestershire. Meet Anselm Guise, owner of Elmore Court the beautiful wedding venue and stately home just outside Gloucester. Find out how Anselm came to own Elmore Court and how over the past 10 years it has been developed from a 16th Century grand country residence into a successful wedding venue on an estate that has sustainability at its heart. When you put a festival organiser into a venue like that, you can imagine the parties...you can also imagine what the locals had to say when Anselm put in for planning permission. Anselm is so inspiring as he shares how ten years on, he has defied all local scepticism and is going beyond the house renovations and is turning his passion for nature and sustainability into rewilding swathes of the Elmore estate. He's now spending his time working on ways to create a really sustainable, biodiverse site through regenerative farming and rewilding of the former wetlands. Talking of wetlands, looking out over the Severn Estuary will be his six luxury treehouses due to open in May 2023, all of which are being kitted out by some rather famous designers – who are also part of the family. Enjoy the episode Find out more about Anselm and Elmore Court at: https://www.elmorecourt.comhttps://www.instagram.com/elmorecourt/https://www.instagram.com/rewildthings/Check out the BBC documentary featuring the development of Elmore Court as a wedding venueListen to Mothers Pride 'Floribunda' produced by Anselm from 1995. Do you remember it?! To share your views on this subject and ask questions about the episode, head over to:InstagramLinkedIn This episode is sponsored by Hello Starling. Hello Starling, is an award-winning Media Planning and Buying agency that specialises in delivering advertising campaigns with great results for visitor attractions and destinations. They've worked with brands such as Bristol Zoo Project, Visit Shropshire, Visit Conwy, Visit Herefordshire and the National Tourism Office for Poland. If you want to be the centre of attention, visit hellostarling.com today. FREE GUIDE - 6 Steps to finding your Ideal Customer Do you want to know who your ideal customer's are and how you can focus your time and money reaching them? Download my FREE guide now. If you have enjoyed this podcast episode, please take a moment to give me a few stars on Apple podcasts or Spotify, it helps to encourage more people to listen and learn from our stories.

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24. Meet Anselm Guise, the aristocratic trance music aficionado, turned owner of stunning country estate Elmore Court, near Gloucester.

Visitor Elves

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2023 33:58

Today's podcast episode is with an aristocratic festival organiser, techno DJ and producer, who has combined his passion for entertainment with his love of the environment in his family home on the River Severn in Gloucestershire. Meet Anselm Guise, owner of Elmore Court the beautiful wedding venue and stately home just outside Gloucester. Find out how Anselm came to own Elmore Court and how over the past 10 years it has been developed from a 16th Century grand country residence into a successful wedding venue on an estate that has sustainability at its heart. When you put a festival organiser into a venue like that, you can imagine the parties...you can also imagine what the locals had to say when Anselm put in for planning permission. Anselm is so inspiring as he shares how ten years on, he has defied all local scepticism and is going beyond the house renovations and is turning his passion for nature and sustainability into rewilding swathes of the Elmore estate. He's now spending his time working on ways to create a really sustainable, biodiverse site through regenerative farming and rewilding of the former wetlands. Talking of wetlands, looking out over the Severn Estuary will be his six luxury treehouses due to open in May 2023, all of which are being kitted out by some rather famous designers – who are also part of the family. Enjoy the episode Find out more about Anselm and Elmore Court at: https://www.elmorecourt.comhttps://www.instagram.com/elmorecourt/https://www.instagram.com/rewildthings/Check out the BBC documentary featuring the development of Elmore Court as a wedding venueListen to Mothers Pride 'Floribunda' produced by Anselm from 1995. Do you remember it?! Huge thanks to podcast sponsor Noble Performs. Noble provide Unstoppable digital marketing to maximise your performance. From SEO to Paid Social and more, we have the tools you need.Find out more about host Kelly Ballard and the Visitor Elves here.Subscribe to the Visitor Elves newsletter, to receive the latest podcast releases and inspirational tips to help you with your visitor economy business. To comment and ask questions about the episode, head over to: InstagramLinkedIn If you have enjoyed this podcast episode, please take a moment to give me a few stars on Apple podcasts or Spotify, it helps to encourage more people to listen and learn from our stories.

Join Jane Cumberlidge as she looks to inspire you to explore The Bristol Channel and River Severn, including Milford Haven to St Ives including the Navigable Severn to Worcester

Explore More with Imray

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2023 18:35

It's my pleasure to welcome you to another edition in our series Explore with Imray. As I get to talk with more of the editors behind the wonderful pilot books Imray produce. I hope you'll enjoy hearing more about their passion for the water along with some of their favourite anchorages and of course discovering more about the cruising grounds they cover which hopefully will provide you with some inspiration for your next cruise. In this episode I met up with Jane Cumberlidge to talk about the pilot book she is now responsible for……..The Bristol Channel and River Severn Cruising Guide including Milford Haven to St Ives including the Navigable Severn to Worcester Yachting monthly said ‘This pilot book covers nearly every creek, pill, river and harbour from Milford Haven to St Ives via Lydney and Bristol. It's beautifully illustrated throughout, with inspiring photographs and a comprehensive set of harbour chartlets. Plenty of historical and cultural asides and a wealth of detail on shoreside attractions' . To find out more just visit; https://www.imray.com/Publications/Imray+Pilots/Imray+pilots+and+cruising+guides/North+West+Europe/IB0012/

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Sound Escape 95: A cold, crisp winter's walk along the Severn Estuary

They Walk Among Us - UK True Crime

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2022 12:36

We're beside the River Severn in South Gloucestershire on a cold, quiet, crisp, sunny winter afternoon. The air is fresh and still and your breath steams in front of you. A gentle breeze moves through the last remaining leaves on the hedgerows and few birds sing. The occasional dog walker potters past.BBC Countryfile Magazine's Sound Escapes are a weekly audio postcard from the countryside to help you relax and transport you somewherebeautiful, wherever you happen to be. Recorded by Annie Sanderson. Presented by Hannah Tribe Email the Plodcast team – and send your sound recordings of the countryside – to: editor@countryfile.com Visit the Countryfile Magazine website: countryfile.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Season 7 - Episode 23

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2022 46:47

Highley is a village built along the banks of the River Severn in Shropshire. Previously a mining area — the collieries closed in 1969 — the village became a market town. In 1975, the population was small, around 3,000 residents. Among them were 17-year-old Lesley Whittle and her mother, Dorothy Walker… (Part 1 of 3).*** LISTENER CAUTION IS ADVISED *** This episode was researched and written by Eileen Macfarlane.Script editing, additional writing, illustrations and production direction by Rosanna FittonNarration, editing, additional writing, and production direction by Benjamin Fitton.Listen to our companion podcast ‘They Walk Among America' here: https://play.acast.com/s/they-walk-among-americaBecome a ‘Patreon Producer' and get exclusive access to Season 1, early ad-free access to episodes, and your name in the podcast credits. Find out more here: https://www.patreon.com/TheyWalkAmongUsMore information and episode references can be found on our website https://theywalkamonguspodcast.comMUSIC: Falling by Alice In Winter Kindness by Outside The Sky Out Into Nothing by Stephen Keech Grave Parade by Bryant Lowry Tainted By Darkness by Cody Martin Reactor by Wicked Cinema Colony by Wicked Cinema The Edge by Caleb Etheridge Crooked Man by Wicked Cinema Path by Stephen Keech The Art Of Fortification by Hill Six Minutes of Peace by Stephen Keech They Walk Among Us is part of the Acast Creator Network - https://www.acast.com/theywalkamongusSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/theywalkamongus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Frampton Country Fair

Open Country

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2022 24:06

The terrier racing is the highlight, "because they are so badly behaved". But before then there are the otters, plus the otterhounds, hunting from horseback with an eagle, and impressive gundog displays. The Frampton Country Fair has been running since 1986, set on the Frampton estate near the River Severn in Gloucestershire. Miles Warde speaks to everyone behind the scenes - including Rollo Clifford, Lib Smith and Sharon Sugars - and many of the exhibitors taking part. Expect a proud and defiant spirit about countryside pursuits. Produced in Bristol by Miles Warde

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To the End of the Severn - With Craig and James from SUP Shropshire

SUPfm

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2022 73:51

The River Severn is the longest river in the UK and in this episode I speak to Craig and James from SUP Shropshire who recently descended the river over four days to raise money for two important charities Craig and James are both serving officers with the Fire and Rescue Service and as part of their roles respectively deliver rescue duties and water safety education alongside their SUP guiding and instructing To support the fundraising for their chosen charities https://seaful.org.uk/ (Seaful )and https://www.sara-rescue.org.uk/ (SARA) (Severn Area Rescue Association) https://www.justgiving.com/team/sup-shropshire (please go to their fundraising page here) http://www.supshropshire.com/ (SUP Shropshire website is here) Connect with SUP Shropshire on social media https://www.facebook.com/SUPShropshireAdventureGuiding (Facebook) https://www.instagram.com/sup_shropshire/ (Instagram) Keep up with SUPfm: on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SUPfmPodcast/ (@SUPfmPodcast) on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/supfmpodcast/ (@supfmpodcast) AND subscribe to our newsletter https://supfm-podcast.aweb.page/p/e41b5a80-42e1-4f27-87db-e0b7486c5ef6 (here) and get your FREE guide to the apps we recommend, to live your best SUP life Build the lifetime knowledge you need to keep safe on the water Our comprehensive online SUP Safety Course gives you the knowledge you need, to keep safe on the water and ALL FOR LESS than the price of an hours on-water tuition (£37) It's available here at https://supfm.thinkific.com/ (https://supfm.thinkific.com/) See you on the water! Mentioned in this episode: This Season's Sponsor is Starboard Thank you to Starboard for their continued sponsorship of this podcast. Follow the link for innovative products, advice and information https://www.supfmpodcast.com/starboard (Starboard) This episode is sponsored by Baltic LifeJackets, Zennway ESEA Strap and Whasup Baltic's innovation team have you covered with their specialist PFDs designed for SUP. The SUP Pro and SUP Elite give you maximum mobility on the board and in the water. The thin, compact and flexible buoyancy material on the front of the PFDs, makes it easier to get back on the board, and when you're paddling it makes the buoyancy aid follow your paddle movement smoothly. Baltic are a Swedish based company, with the Swedish safety mindset, and they manufacture in Europe and sell across the world. To check out the SUP specific, SUP Pro and SUP Elite then follow this link and find out your country specific stockist : https://baltic.se/en/produkter/flytvastar/aktivitet/flytvastar-for-sup/ If you've ever struggled to carry your board to the water then check out the ESEA strap by UK innovators Zennway It combines a SUP specific, carry strap with a robust ‘no snag' SUP Leash… giving you a practical 2 in 1 solution, also available as a quick release belt option. Made with resilient marine grade materials for long term use in the most challenging environments, you can make your SUP experience ESEA by following the link here: https://zennway.com/ WhaSUP produce reasonably priced, high quality custom bags for all styles and sizes of boards and paddles and for all watersports. WhaSUP have developed an extensive range of protective board bags, from standard day bags to full on travel bags, and supply to individuals and teams, recreational riders and professionals all across the globe. Check out their range here: https://whasup.co.uk/

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Meg Prince, The Ironbridge Bookshop

The Bookshop Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2022 20:21

In this episode, I chat with Meg Prince, owner of The Ironbridge Bookshop in Shropshire, England, about buying an indie bookshop at age 18, Penguin Books, coffee and cakes, and what she's currently reading!The Ironbridge Bookshop is located in the main square of the historic town of Ironbridge, with views over the River Severn and the Ironbridge, set right in the heart of Shropshire, England.The bookshop specializes in Penguin Books and has an extensive collection displayed on their very own ‘Penguin Wall.' These books hold a special place in Meg's heart, as not only are they iconic with their striking color-coded covers and the many series that were published, but they are a wonderful piece of bookish history. When first published 82 years ago, Penguin Books were delivered to service men and prisoners of war camps. Few of these early copies survive and have become highly collectible.The Ironbridge BookshopLJ Ross, authorSir Terry Pratchett, authorSupport the show

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149. How the River Severn is being unlocked to allow fish to migrate once more

fish unlocking unlocked migrate severn river severn

Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2022 50:58

Once upon a time, millions of fish would migrate up the River Severn to spawning grounds – including the beautiful twaite shad or mayfish. But weirs built for navigation meant that fish routes were blocked and fish numbers have declined drastically. Now the Unlocking the Severn project has built fish passes around the biggest obstacles. Jenny Hermolle and her team reveal how things are already improving for the river and its fish – plus, we get to explore the astonishing window into the fishes' world. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Maya Jordan and Stephen Tuffin

Michael Sheen: Margins to Mainstream

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2022 28:00

Michael Sheen introduces 11 new writers from under-represented backgrounds on a journey to reveal truths from the margins of society. We'll hear from Maya Jordan, a neuro-divergent working class mother of six from Newtown, currently writing a novel about a goddess of the River Severn. And Stephen Tuffin, a former former butcher's boy, cook, cab driver, door-to-door salesman, care home assistant, road worker and builder now writing working-class stories inspired by the remarkable and raw world he's lived and worked in. Journalists Kevin Maguire and Siobhan McNally share their writing tips. And in a very special performance, Michael Sheen performs new work by the two writers profiled in the episode.

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After Eunice - Guarlford, Worcestershire

Ramblings

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2022 24:15

Clare explores a rural route near the Worcestershire village of Guarlford. Storm Eunice has just left, Franklin is underway and the River Severn is up so this is a last-minute change to the planned walk. Originally Clare and her guest, poet Catherine Swire, had planned to hike the first stretch of the Monarch's Way which runs along the banks of the Rivers Teme and Severn in Worcester but flooding has pushed them a little further south. Catherine has recently published her first book of poetry, 'Soil', which takes the theme of historic trauma and explores how it is etched on our landscape. Worcester was the site of the first proper skirmish, and the last battle, of the English Civil War, something featured within Catherine's work. The Monarch's Way is a long distance path which traces the very indirect escape route - from Worcester to Suffolk - of Charles II after his loss at the Battle of Worcester in 1651. Guarlford (not on the Monarch's Way) is about two miles east of Great Malvern, and a good mile and a half west of the River Severn - hopefully far enough to keep their feet dry. The grid reference for their starting point in Guarlford is SO 813 453. The map is OS Explorer 190 Malvern Hills and Bredon Hill Presenter: Clare Balding Producer: Karen Gregor

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121. Uncovering the secrets of a graveyard in Gloucestershire

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Play Episode Listen Later Oct 19, 2021 55:03

Sitting on a small hill above the River Severn, St Arilda's Church has a magical churchyard full of old gravestones – and each one tells a curious tale. We meet with Sarah Williams of Who Do You Think You Are magazine to decipher some of the stories in the stones in this Gloucestershire village and learn how to trace our own rural ancestors. Please do leave feedback and likes – and send messages to editor@countryfile.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

EP63 Haunted Rivers: Wailing spirits, monstrous serpents, bottomless pits and the devil in disguise - explore the strange legends of the Welsh waterways on the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast

Ghosts and Folklore of Wales with Mark Rees

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2021 23:02

Dare you swim in the spirit-filled waterways of Wales? They might look calm and serene from land, but the rivers of Wales are steeped in accounts of strange creatures and trapped souls. There's the apparition of a wailing woman seen up and down the River Severn, the Taff whirlpool which is said to be the work of a giant serpent, and the unusual case of an image of the Virgin Mary being put on trial near the River Dee. Join author Mark Rees (Ghosts of Wales) as he explores the weird and wonderful tales connected to three of Wales' most well-known rivers on the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast. What is the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales with Mark Rees podcast? In early 2020, Mark Rees launched the world's first podcast dedicated to Welsh ghost stories, folklore, myths and legends. By combining his unique research and insights from many books and articles with long-lost tales from dusty old tomes, this weird and wonderful podcast takes a fascinating look at the country's countless curious subjects. New episodes are uploaded every Thursday and feature everything from real-life encounters with pesky poltergeists to fantastical beasts from the Mabinogion and the skulled-headed Christmas favourite herself, the Mari Lwyd. Be sure to subscribe, and for more details and to get in touch with Mark Rees, please visit: Mark Rees homepage Mark Rees on social media Books by Mark Rees Ghosts of Wales podcast

Severn Heaven

Woman

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2021 2:07

Original spoken word poetry about exploring and drifting along the beautiful River Severn in the United Kingdom. SEVERN HEAVEN I am in heaven. Everything I imagine. Or ever could imagine. I am in heaven. And who did I find? I found me right there, dwellin'. No more hate, no one yellin'. I am in heaven. I hover and glide. Upon the wing of a prayer. Smiling face, the wind in my hair. Oh! I am in heaven. As far as the eyes, Can see, nothing but heaven. A cooling breeze, waters are clear, Trees are free, heaven. Breathing easily. No more stress, the air is free. And I feel like me. One, two, three Four, five, six, heaven. I have found where my heart longs to be. The place where I can be free, be me. Amidst the graceful streams of heaven. Floating along, the River Severn. (c) Jay Rose Ana ► SOCIAL MEDIA • website ➭ https://www.jayroseana.com/ • tiktok ➭ https://www.tiktok.com/@jayroseana • pinterest ➭ https://www.pinterest.co.uk/jayroseana/ • twitter ➭ https://twitter.com/jayroseana/ • reddit ➭ https://www.reddit.com/user/jayroseana/ • youtube ➭ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEkO46xhPeMlYHGpiwXJlgQ

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Tales of the River Severn · With Amy Douglas

Lore & Legend : Tales From Our Mythic Past

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2021 69:48

Amy Douglas shares with us a series of tales of the River Severn - the longest river in Great Britain, which flows from the Cambrian Mountains of Wales through the counties of Shropshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire. At the heart of Amy's career as a storyteller is the relationship between story, community and the land. Our conversation centered around the themes of landscape, tradition and mentorship in the storytelling world. You can find out more about Amy's work at https://amydouglas.com. Her own podcast show, Taking the Tradition On, can be found on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpcvx1G7TUAbeZU80cJJX8g | Lore & Legend Themes by Robert Bentall. Additional music was by Seikilo Museum of Ancient Instruments. Visit the website for full credits. || Keep up to date with the podcast by visiting www.loreandlegend.co.uk and following us on Facebook and Twitter. || Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ofloreandlegend/ || Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/ofloreandlegend --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/loreandlegend/message

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17/05/21 Seasonal workers, access to national parks, counting shad

Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2021 11:41

The Government’s new immigration policy may lead to a threat to Britain’s food supply-chain because there won’t be enough workers to pick this summer’s crops. That’s according to the Environment Food and Rural Affairs Committee who’ve been commenting on the Government’s response to concerns they raised about this, in a report published back in December. The further easing of some lockdown restrictions will mean more of us can get away from home and enjoy a few days holiday, perhaps in the great outdoors. Visitor numbers are already increasing in National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty so all this week we’re going to be talking about access to the countryside and some of the issues it raises. And we're counting fish. A multi-million pound project, Unlocking the Severn, is removing man made obstacles that get in the way of migrating fish on the River Severn. To see whether it’s making a difference an army of volunteers has been enlisted to count the fish as they swim upstream. Presented by Caz Graham and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

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12: Unlocking the Severn

Rambling About Rivers

Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2021 40:40

The latest episode of Rambling About Rivers is all about the return of the Twaite Shad on the River Severn. This iconic species was a common sight in the Severn over 100 years ago, but the construction of a large number of weirs led to populations collapsing. Today, Dan and Jayne are joined by Rosie Croggon, Education Officer at Severn Rivers Trust and Charles Crundwell, Senior Technical Specialist in Fisheries at the Environment Agency. Rosie and Charles help us to explore the history of this iconic species, and look at some of the groundbreaking work they have carried out to improve the migratory journey for the Shad fish through their Unlocking the Severn project. This partnership project sees Severn Rivers Trust working with Canal and River Trust, Environment Agency and Natural England, with the goal of restoring 158 miles of river!

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23/01/21 Farming Today This Week: lockdown footpaths, eels going nowhere, dog attacks, vets

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Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2021 25:10

Many of us will be out walking in our local countryside this weekend. It's one of the few joys of lockdown, but it's causing problems for some farmers. Olly Harrison farms on Merseyside and has footpaths across the farm. At at the moment they’re very muddy, so people are avoiding the mud by walking across his crops, which, as he explains, isn’t ideal. But Miles King from the conservation charity, People Need Nature, says we're looking at this all wrong. Eels from the River Severn have been exported all over Europe. Some to end up on people’s plates, others to rivers and lakes where the eel is under threat. But no longer. The company which exports the fish is warning that changes in the rules since Brexit mean that it may not survive. The cost of dog attacks on sheep has been rising across England. The insurer NFU Mutual said the cost of claims in the South East of the country rose by 87% in 2019. A farmer describes his distress at finding 50 of his sheep half dead and mutilated, just before Christmas. And we hear about a new project which aims to help vets cut antibiotics used on farm, and a survey looking into racism and mental health experienced by vets. Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

22/01/21 Live export, Rural Tourism, Glass eels

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Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2021 13:40

MPs are launching an investigation into new rules on the transport of animals. The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs select committee’s inquiry will look at how a potential ban on live animal exports would affect farmers and processors, and will also consider implications for transporting horses. A UK company which exports eels from the River Severn all over Europe says changes in the rules since Brexit mean it may not survive. Because European eels are classed as critically endangered, the European Union only allows trade within the EU. The owner of UK Glass Eels says that means he can’t export them - even to Northern Ireland, where they normally go to restock Lough Neagh. And as we come to the end of another week of lockdown, Farming Today checks in with another one of our rural audio-diarists. Caroline Millar farms beef and sheep near Dundee, where she also runs luxury holiday accommodation. Presented by Charlotte Smith Produced in Bristol by Natalie Donovan

85. Encountering the surging Severn Bore on an atmospheric walk beside Britain's longest river

walk britain longest encountering surging bore atmospheric fergus severn river severn

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2021 41:33

Meet the Severn Bore – a dramatic tidal wave that surges up the River Severn on rare occasions each year. Plodcast host Fergus joins local resident and naturalist James Fair for a wander along the river just before the Bore struck. A fantastic audio adventure with some great wildlife and surprise guests… See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Postcard from Worcester

ICEB General Assemblies and Mid-Terms

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2020 3:27

Featuring Worcestershire Porcelain, Lea & Perrins (Worcestershire sauce), Sir Edward Elgar, Worcester Cathedral, the Three Choirs Festival, the River Severn, seaguls, the Worcester County Cricket Ground, flooding, the city walls, the Commandery and New College Worcester.

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Episode 3 - Worcestershire

Dips and Chips

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2020 7:21

3 rivers in 1 day around the Malvern Hills and Worcestershire. River Teme, River Severn and River Avon

worcestershire river severn river avon

No You Can't Walk More Than 3 Dogs!

From Wags To Riches

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2020 47:16

Bewdley, home of a Thomas Telford Bridge and nestling on the banks of the River Severn - this Georgian town is the unlikely epicentre of a vipers nest of 'dogophobes' hell bent on causing problems for dog lovers whilst destroying professional dog businesses in the process.

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Small Fish - Big Project

Open Country

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2020 24:13

How a little known fish, rare and remarkable, is driving a huge project on the River Severn. Weirs may look dramatic and sound wonderful but, for fish, they are nothing more than a barrier, preventing progress upstream. That's why you'll see anglers, both human and heron, hanging around weirs for an easy-ish catch. One fish in particular, previously found in healthy numbers on the Severn, has suffered. It's the Twaite Shad, sleek and fast, but not fond of leaping. However, a project called Unlocking the Severn is well underway to install gigantic fish-passes at four weirs. These will allow the Twaite Shad to swim through and reach their spawning grounds in significant numbers for the first time since the Victorians installed weirs to improve navigation during the industrial revolution. Because of Covid19, the sound-quality of this programme will be a little different: all the interviewees recorded themselves, on their phone voice-recorders, in their own homes... many thanks to each of them for persevering! See the 'related links' box below for more info on the entire Unlocking the Severn project. Producer/Presenter: Karen Gregor

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Episode 37 - What's That Up There Part 2

Not for the Dinner Table

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2020 58:53

Hello Diners. We’re sorry for the delay in bringing Episode 37 to your ears, but there is this pesky pandemic going on at the moment. Anyway, sit back and enjoy an hour at our dinner table. In NFTDT news Sophie delves into the ancient Viking runestone causing a modern-day concern. Dave brings up that a psychic may have predicted Coronavirus and Sophie rounds up the news on Charles Bonnet syndrome that might be causing Peripheral ghosts and provides more information about the Goddess Sabrina of the River Severn all from Episode 36 In Episode 37 we’re going back to ‘What’s that up there’. Dave is looking into the infamous Black Knight Satellite a supposed Alien satellite that is monitoring all humanity. Whilst Soph talks all things Roswell and even shares a conspiracy that Dave didn’t know… P.S. Sorry about the Boy Racers!!! Remember you can also enter our competition, from anywhere in the world, to win the awesome Ouija Wallet. All you need to do is the following: 1) Leave a 5-star review wherever you found our podcast – this must include a written review 2) Screen grab the review and send it to notforthedinnertable@gmail.com or DM our Twitter or Instagram 3) That’s it you’ll be entered into the draw and have a chance to win. If you want to send in a story, questions or suggest a topic for us to cover email notforthedinnertable@gmail.com You can send us your weird sightings, spooky encounters or general strangeness. And remember everyone is welcome at our dinner table, except… Follow us on Twitter @NFTDT Follow us on Instagram @notforthe_dinnertable Follow us on Facebook @ Not for the Dinner Table Our music is by the amazing Chris Scott @ScottyJax. And our logo is by the wickedly talented Kayleigh and you can see more of her work on Instagram @kcreatesdesign You can listen to our podcast on the Apple Podcast App, Soundcloud, Stitcher, and Spotify or wherever you find podcasts. If you like the show, please leave a review wherever you have listened to this podcast. Welcome along to our dinner table where we have conversations that aren't suitable for the regular dinner table. We discuss ghosts, crypts, aliens and everything in between. We are not experts in our topics and this is not a deep dive podcast (all the time), but we are two people that enjoy discussing the stranger things in our world.

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30: 06th March 2020 - Stourport Swifts, Taunton Town, Bike Riding 'Keeper & Non League Round-up

The Non League Football Show

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2020 58:59

Tim Fuell flies solo as he talks to Stourport Swifts Ian Johnson about how the club is looking to recover from the recent floods that devastated the club and facilities when the River Severn burst its banks and how support has been forthcoming from across the non league fraternity and the football authorities.Taunton Town's Chairman Kevin Sturmey is also Head Groundsman at the club battling the weather and everything that comes with the modern game. He offers insight into the juggle of the modern part-time game, why the critics should be more understanding and how VAR is probably the last thing people involved in real football should be discussing. Plus how the club is well-placed to make the next step should they make the play-offs and promotion from The Southern League Premier South.Jack Hartopp is goalkeeper with Midland League Division Two side Coventry Alvis who is preparing for a 145 mile charity bike ride in June. Raising funds for Prostate Cancer UK he is set to ride from Sheffield to Amsterdam via Hull and is collecting sponsorship from non league clubs across the country and will wear their badge with pride on his ride. Hear how you can get involved.David Richardson, Senior Writer with The Non League Paper provides this week's non league round-up including the FA Vase and FA Trophy Quarter Final results and postponements as well as the semi final draw. Plus there's discussion of the England C squad announcement and Lee Clark's departure from Blyth Spartans.

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Worcester Moments - Politics: Electoral fraud - Programme 3

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Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2020

In this programme, Andrew reveals how Worcester gained notoriety for electoral malpractice which led to Worcester being without a sitting MP for two years, and how the campaign to rid the constituency of this fraud backfired on the Liberal Party. He talks to History West Midlands publisher Mike Gibbs. Keywords: Worcester, electoral fraud, River Severn, Worcester Cathedral, Andrew Reekes, George Williamson

Worcester Moments - Religion: The dissolution of the monasteries and the effect on the religious life of Worcester - Programme 1

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Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2020

In this programme, Andrew explains how the Dissolution of the monastaries at the hands of Henry VIII and Thomas Cromwell had a profound impact on the religious life of the city and the welfare of its residents and led directly to the foundation of the Kings School. He talks to the publisher of History West Midlands, Mike Gibbs. Keywords: Worcester, Dissolution, River Severn, Henry VIII, Thomas Cromwell, Andrew Reekes

Worcester Moments - The Battles of Worcester 1651 - Programme 2

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Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2020

In this programme, Andrew discusses how the two famous battles of Worcester in 1642 and 1651 highlight the strategic importance of the city to king and Parliament during bloody English Civil war and beyond. He talks to the publisher of History West Midlands, Mike Gibbs. Keywords: Andrew Reekes, Worcester, The Battle of Worcester, River Severn, Worcester Cathedral

Unexplained Deaths Blamed on an 'Unknown Animal' Worldwide

Bigfoot/Dogman/Unexplained

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2019 27:16

Mystery Animal Attacks a Child and Kills a number of dogs in New JerseyParents of a small toddler were horrified when their young child was attacked and dragged off by a mystery animal whilst visiting New Jersey. The child was reportedly running around with his cousins and uncle in a yard when a mystery animal attempted to grab hold of him and it began to drag him off. The frightened infant was able to break free from the attacking animal, authorities said. The young boy was treated for scratches and bite marks at the hospital and released.He and his family have since returned to Florida. Until the attack on the infant, authorities in Middletown say they were confounded by a number of random attacks on local dogs. Police say also four puppies were dragged off from McGuires Grove Apartments and later found dead.Bones found on public footpath near the River SevernA Trainer with a sock with the remains of bones inside it have been found on a public footpath adjacent to the River Severn at Odda's Chapel. The police can only identify the gender of the remains and have nothing to explain this mysterious find. The Trainer was a Blue Van vision skate shoe. This model of trainer was first manufactured in the US and also sold in the UK in 2006. Police do not know the age of the male or any description.

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Winter Starlings

Go Wild

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2019 28:11

Wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson rigs up microphones in a reed bed near the River Severn and then waits for dusk and a wildlife spectacle to arrive.

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Along the River Severn

Slow Radio

Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2019 20:36

Immerse yourself in this river setting with Petroc Trelawny - with sounds of the Severn recorded along, and within, the flowing water.

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Podiots: Episode 27 - The River Severn

Podiots

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2019 74:57

Ben's got some inventions, Mikey's embroiled in a conspiracy, and Peter's changing his name to Argos from inside a lift. New merch: http://smarturl.it/Podiots Twitch: Twitch.tv/vidiotsofficialYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/vidiotsofficialTwitter: https://twitter.com/VidiotsOfficialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/vidiotsofficialDiscord: http://bit.ly/VidiotsDiscordBen and Peter's channel 'TripleJump': https://www.youtube.com/teamtriplejump Follow the gang on Twitter:Ben: @Confused_DudePeter: @ThatPeterAustinMichael: @ParrotBoy

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The Men Who Go Missing

5 Live Investigates

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2019 44:35

Teenager Thomas Jones went missing on a night out with friends during his first week at university in Worcester. His body was recovered from the River Severn more than a week later. 5 Live Investigates has been told that Thomas's death and dozens more like it could have been prevented - if only certain safety measures were put in place. 150 young men have died after going missing on a night out over the last nine years. 5 Live Investigates has seen new research which reveals between 10 and 20 men die every year after going missing in towns and cities across the UK – the majority of them under the age of 35. Practical safety measures like late night transport to get people home, improved lighting and barriers between footpaths and waterways could all help prevent similar tragedies in the future, according to campaigners and charities.

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Episode 226: Well done mate - 18 December 2018

Motoring Podcast - News Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2018 89:15

On the final News Show of the year, the chaps start off with good Follow Up, the Bloodhound project has been saved, there are several articles discussed with regards, to the continued fall out from Carlos Ghosn's arrest, a leaked email shows that Uber allegedly knew their autonomous vehicle project wasn't going well, Levandowski claims his new company has driven across the US with no disengagements, Euro 6 diesel cars can be banned from European cities, Apple hires a Tesla designer, Hyundai to sell a car unlockable with a fingerprint in China, River Severn crossing now free, drivers are warned of 'Frantic Friday', Formula E is back, CEO Agag will become Chairman of Formula E, the chaps discuss last year's predictions and announce their new ones for 2019, Porsche have to tell us how to pronounce Taycan.

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Purton Hulks

Open Country

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2018 24:33

Helen Mark discovers the fascinating world of the UK's largest ship's graveyard Purton Hulks, the largest collection of maritime wrecks above water in Britain. What began as the intentional beaching of a small fleet of semi-redundant timber lighters in the winter of 1909 to strengthen the nearby eroding canal bank eventually grew into 81 vessels that and today represents the largest collection of maritime artefacts on the foreshore of mainland Britain - including boats that hold scheduled monument status, the same protection afforded by Westminster Abbey and Stonehenge. Resting on the banks of the River Severn they still provide a barrier of protection for an important stretch of the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal which runs alongside the village of Purton in Gloucestershire. Following an on-going programme of research carried out by a dedicated team of volunteers, the stories of these ships have finally been revealed and their future is being protected for generations to come. Helen Mark uncovers the fascinating history of these stranded ship and the emotional resonance that they still hold for visitors today as she meets with those who care for these ships and manage the special landscape that surrounds it.

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Purton, Gloucestershire

Ramblings

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2018 24:51

Clare Balding takes a walk along the banks of the Severn in the company of the country's most prolific travel writers, Christopher Somerville who's also the walking correspondent of The Times. They begin their six and a half mile walk in the Gloucestershire village of Purton which lies on the east bank of the River Severn, Christopher's childhood village of Leigh is not far upstream. He talks to Clare about the role walking has played in his life and how it became a way that he could reconnect with his late father. The route can be found on OS Explorer OL 14 , map ref for the starting point : SO 684021 Producer Lucy Lunt.

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From Our Home Correspondent

From Our Own Correspondent Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2018 28:05

In the latest programme of the monthly series, Mishal Husain introduces dispatches from journalists and writers around the United Kingdom that reflect the range of contemporary life in the country. We hear how a small Scottish market town is responding to the new that its last remaining bank branch is scheduled for closure; what a flag-waving, Cornish yomp through the sand dunes and encounter with a 1500 year-old holy man reveals about the place and people; how the English, who once prided themselves on not cheating at sport and their sense of fair play, are adjusting to a different moral position; why the forthcoming abolition of tolls on the River Severn road crossings may intensify enthusiasm among the English for living in Wales; and what a humble kitchen worktop can reveal about origins, belonging and what's in a name. Producer: Simon Coates

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13: The Haw Bridge Mystery Part 2

The Unseen Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2018 45:20

The discovery of an unidentified torso in the River Severn caused a sensation in the small town of Tewkesbury in Gloucestershire. This was further added to by the discovery of a suicide and a missing man. What happened to them? In this second part we delve into the rumours in the case, the witness statements and the inquest. The case is a strange and unusual story that takes many twists and turns and ask the question of who were Captain Butt and Brian Sullivan and what happened to them? Important information provided by: www.bbc.co.ukHistorical news articles provided by:www.findmypast.co.ukNewspapers cited- The Scotsman, Nottingham Journal, Cheltenham Chronicle, Gloucestershire Echo, Derby Daily journal, Lancashire Evening Post, Aberdeen Press and Journal, The Daily Herald.Twitter- @theunseenpodFacebook- The Unseen PodcastInstagram - TheUnseenPodWebsite www.TheUnseenPodcast.com

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12: The Haw Bridge Mystery Part 1

The Unseen Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2018 32:16

On February 3rd 1938, three fisherman would come across a body floating the River Severn at a crossing called Haw Bridge. The puzzling thing about it was the body had no head or arms and legs. The torso caused a sensation in the town of Tewkesbury and a huge investigation began which included Scotland Yard and well known pathologist Sir Bernard Spilsbury. The investigation would uncover a suicide and a missing captain but were they all connected? Who did the unidentified torso belong to? The mystery has baffled many over the years and in this part 1 episode we delve into how the police connected these cases together and why they are still being brought up in the news today.Important information provided by:www.bbc.comwww.severnandwye.wordpress.comHistorical news articles provided by:www.findmypast.co.ukNewspapers cited- The Scotsman, Nottingham Journal, Cheltenham Chronicle, Gloucestershire Echo, Derby Daily journal, Lancashire Evening Post, Aberdeen Press and Journal, The Daily Herald.Twitter- @theunseenpodFacebook- The Unseen PodcastInstagram - TheUnseenPodWebsite www.TheUnseenPodcast.com

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14: Site singing at Over Bridge with Ellen Southern

Avon Stories

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2017 25:30

Ellen Southern is a vocal artist, whose Site Singing project includes visiting lesser-known heritage sites, and making vocal pieces responding to the spaces, alongside drawings, photos and writing. I met Ellen when she was performing a piece under the Avon Bridge, as part of a walk, and I was delighted when she invited me to come and visit one of her sites, Over Bridge. This is a beautiful, abandoned bridge to nowhere on the River Severn in Gloucester, and we explored the space together, while she told me more about the bridge, and why she loves it. Links to things we talked about, and photos, on my website: https://avonstories.com/2017/12/07/avon-stories-podcast-14-ellen-southern/

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Episode 2 - Green Oval Podcast

Green Oval Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2017 22:45

Episode 2 of the Green Oval Podcast meets with James who is the Wyre Forest Land Search Training Manager for the Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA). SARA’s Wyre Forest station is located at Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Services (HWFRS) Kidderminster Fire Station. SARA is tasked by Fire Control together with responding to requests from West Mercia Constabulary covering the River Severn and all adjoining waterways as well as providing a land/bank search rescue team. SARA is a volunteer organisation and ably supported by two Land Rover 110's and a Land Rover 127" Ambulance. We chat with James to find out how they use the Land Rovers on shouts out's, the gear they carry and what a typical day looks like in the world of search & rescue.

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The story of Iron Bridge, Shropshire: Part 1

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Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2017

The Iron Bridge in Shropshire, UK was the world’s first iron bridge in the world. Constructed in 1779 its single span has become one of the worlds best known industrial monuments. It symbolises one of the earliest developments in the Industrial Revolution. In this podcast, David de Haan, Director of the Ironbridge Trust 1998-2012 tells the story of the birth of the bridge. KEYWORDS: Ironbridge, Coalbrookdale, Iron, Abraham Darby, UNESCO, World Heritage, River Severn, Shropshire Industry, Engineering

The story of Iron Bridge, Shropshire: Part 2

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Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2017

Tom Phillips, Ferryman by R. Frowen

Backwell Playhouse Podcasts

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 20, 2015 38:26

It is 1927 and the end of an era. Tom Phillips is a Ferryman on the River Severn in Gloucestershire. On the day of his retirement, the man who has little use for conversation makes four speeches chronicling his life of more than forty years crossing the Severn; one to the village, another to his friend, the next to his wife, and finally to his true mistress, the mysterious Sabrina. This play was written by R. Frowen, and features music by Amy Sayer.

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Severn Serenade

The Bike Show Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2014

Jack rides with singer-songwriter and cycle-tourist Jet McDonald, setting out from Bristol on a summer evening, riding along the banks of the River Avon, through the industrial landscape of Avonmouth to the banks of the River Severn and beyond. Continue reading →

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Sing When We're Losing

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Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2014 50:54

Phil Whelans is joined by Jim Grant and Facebook group regular Craig Climpson. Phil is back from his EDL meeting just in time to discuss the Liverpool game and there is even a letter from Ravel Morrison Free $20 Bet - www.Paddypower.com/hammertime Get our FREE apps - www.westhampodcast.com Produced by Paul Myers A Playback Media Production If you like what we do please drop $1.50 in the tin!.

Boo When We're Winning

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2014 51:29

Phil Whelans is join by Jim Grant to discuss an awful home performance, a great away performance, mad footballers, signed pictures, boo gate, middle aged women, converting hammers. Free $20 Bet - Paddypower.com/hammertime Free Android App - westhampodcast.com Produced by Paul Myers A Playback Media Production If you like what we do please drop $1.50 in the tin!

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Lazy Susanne

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2014 51:38

To celebrate Big Sam's ultimate mega manager of the month and decline since, Phil Whelans is joined by Jim Grant and Gordon Thrower for another slogger at the platinum table. Free $20 Bet - Paddypower.com/hammertime Free Android App - westhampodcast.com Produced by Paul Myers A Playback Media Production If you like what we do please drop $1.50 in the tin!

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Back in The Game

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2014 42:25

Phil Whelans, Don Peretta, Jacob Steinberg are back after a short spell on the sidelines but were straight into the game....analysis vs Everton and our games since our last brace. Free $20 Bet - Paddypower.com/hammertime Free Android App - westhampodcast.com Produced by Paul Myers A Playback Media Production If you like what we do please drop $1.50 in the tin!

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Stand Up If You're Standing Up

How D'Ya Like Them Apples

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2014 50:35

Phil Whelans, Jim Grant and Rob Chapman talk Car trouble, Aston Villa and the beginning of the end for The Boleyn Ground. Were we threatened at Villa? Is Tomkins really that bad? Are the new Italians the Answer? Free $20 Bet - Paddypower.com/hammertime Free Android App - westhampodcast.com Produced by Paul Myers A Playback Media Production If you like what we do please drop $1.50 in the tin!

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Episode 4 - Live Thornbury Wassail 2013 29-01-2013

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2013

Episode 4 - Live Thornbury Wassail 2013Our live special from the 2013 Thornbury Wassail organised by The Barrel pub on the 19/01/2013. Featuring live recording of the traditional Wassail and soundbites of the exclusive Mucky Bunghoul's Wake. A fireside play about the scurrilous goings on between the forces of good and evil on the banks of the River Severn. Finally includes two live cider reviews:Moles Brewery, Black Rat CiderThatchers, Thatchers GoldThanks to the team at The Barrel pub, St Mary's St, Thornbury, Bristol, for letting us record live and also to the bands The Longest Johns and the Surfin Turnips.The Barrel: The Barrel on FacebookThe Longest Johns: The Longest Johns on FacebookThe Surfin Turnips: The Surfin Turnips on MySpaceFind us at: www.howdyalikethemapples.comTwitter: @ThemApplesShowFacebook:www.facebook.com/HowdyalikethemapplesEmail: show@howdyalikethemapples.com

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Countryfile Magazine: Waterways special