Powis Wood Fair

People from all over the UK came to the beautiful grounds of Powys Castle near Welshpool last weekend for the eighth Powis Wood Fair.

This entertaining and educational event is for everyone who wants to know about wood of all kinds and its many uses. The Powis Wood Fair reflects the variety of woodlands trades with displays of large forestry machinery next to gypsy flowers made from hedge trimmings.

A stunning array of woodland crafts was on display including wood turning, pyrography, coracles and bows made from yew. There were opportunities to learn about charcoal making, woodworking, tree surgery, chainsaw sculpture, sawmilling techniques, musical instruments made from wood and many other woodland crafts. The kids were kept entertained with bug hunts in the woods, face painting, story telling, a bouncy castle and Mini Quads.

Maggie Braunton and her 18-year-old Ardenne horse gave an inspiring demonstration of horse logging in the main arena. She demonstrated long reining, methods of pulling and stacking logs, and the special verbal commands that she gives her horse to let him know exactly what she wants him to do.

For more exciting woodland events in Wales check out the Wales Woodland Celebration 2007.