Scythers make light work of mow training

EMMA CURRY

PEOPLE have been learning the traditional farming skill of scything on a special Learn to Mow course hosted by The Rewilding Hyndburn’s Green Spaces project.

The course was led by trainer Steve Tomlin, founder member and training co-ordinator for the Scythe Association and author of Learn to Scythe.

Barbara Sharples, activity organiser at The Prospects Foundation which ran the course, said: “The focus of the Learn to Mow course was practical skills and learning-by-doing, to ●● Volunteers at the end of their scythe training. From left, Christine Greenwood, Anne Hourican, Danni Whitehead, Ed Copeland and Joe Kearns, with Barbara Sharples send people away ready to continue on their own.

“A scythe is useful, practical, economically sensible and environmentally friendly.

“Participants learnt about the features and advantages of the Aus- trian scythe, how to set up the scythe to their size and adjust the blade, ergonomic mowing style for more efficient cutting and less stress on the body, sharpening the blade in the field, peening (hammering the blade to shape the edge as part of the sharpening process) and care and maintenance of the scythe.

“The day was a great success and we plan to network with other scythers in the north west and get together for events with local organisations involved in meadow management.”

Steve said, “The Austrian scythe will cut weeds, brambles, rushes, small scrub or grass and works in small spaces, around trees and on slopes.

“Mowing is gentle, nonimpact exercise suitable for all ages. No more ear defenders, visor, brushcutter or trimmer fumes or noise, just the sound of the birds and the swish of your blade.”

Prospects is working with community groups, schools and other organisations to develop food growing areas and the wildlife habitats impor- tant for organic food growing.

Thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, Prospects has received £19,975 for the Rewilding Hyndburn’s Green Spaces project.

This will allow Prospects to create and enhance habitats for wildlife while providing natural resources to encourage organic practices on a wide range of community food growing sites.

For more information, call Julie Livesey, Rewilding Green Spaces co-ordinator, on 01254 230348, ext #208, or 07799 295233, or email julie.livesey@ prospectsfoundation.org. uk.