Our Chairman states: “We, as a group, put on a good display and were very well received by both public and organisers alike. It was far from the ‘usual suspects’ with the majority of our exhibitors being ‘first timers’ with the Group and some being first time exhibitors full stop!! The organisers wanted us there and went out of their way to make sure we could be there. It was also great to have Richard, Colin, Tim, Angela, Stuart, Simon Farndon and many others visit to show and give support.”

The Weald Woodfair, ordinarily the last show of the season for the Group, 16^th – 18^th September, was also as successful as ever.  Following the efforts of a keen few Members the week prior, carrying out clearance work on the site, the wooded area we occupy for demonstrations, this time not only had the sun shining through the trees, but was also significantly more spacious, allowing a more relaxed Public to mingle amongst the Group.  With last year’s ‘funnel’ effect a thing of the past, the Public could really appreciate the stunning sculpture of Roger Day’s conceptual Chestnut shelter, enjoy John Sinclair’s controversial ‘bull roarers’, and watch in awe whilst Graham West experimented with a very old method of bowl making – burning the main hollow of the bowl with glowing embers prior to scraping and carving.  Along with the usual suspects demonstrating the skills of their professions, and the ever popular Charcoal Drawing for children, we also welcomed Darren Thomas to the Group’s display, with his beautifully unique hand-made ‘stick’ furniture…. significantly more dramatic than they sound!  Many thanks, as always, to all those who gave their help and support at this key event!!

If you think you may like to take part in 2012, at any of the shows or events the Group attends, then please do contact Mick Stanton on 01483 810062.

The Introduction to Green Wood Turning course, 13th-14th September, is for the Lower Mole Trust, who would like to run more courses as awareness raising and to bring in a little money.  See the Trust website for their small grants scheme:

 www.surreycommunity.info/lowermolecountrysidetrust 

the end of the day…

After almost ten years at the top, at last night’s AGM, Phillip Hardy stepped down from his position on the Committee, choosing not to stand for re-election.  In acknowledgement of the all the hard work and dedication Phil has given to the Group over the last decade, the room erupted in spontaneous applause following this announcement.  Phillip’s input will be sorely missed by his fellow Committee Members, but both the Group and the Committee look forward to Phil’s continued membership and support of the Group.

The photograph here was taken on a Coracle Making course Phillip taught a couple of years ago (Phil features in the blue overalls).

If you think you can fill Phil’s shoes, and think you might be interested in joining the Committee of the Sussex and Surrey Coppice Group, then please contact John Sinclair, Chairman, on 07743 164 422, or alternatively email him at jadeswood@tiscali.co.uk.  (Please note, you must be a current Member of the Group to stand for a position on the Committee). 

Please bring your own mug if you would like to drink, and booze if you would like to drink anything stronger than tea/coffee.

AGENDA:

• Chairmans Report
• Treasurer’s Report and Accounts
• Amendment to the Constitution (draft already issued to members via e-mail)
• Forthcoming Events
• Any Other Business
• Close of Formal Meeting
• BBQ and Drinks, along with Socialising and Merriment

We look forward to seeing you there!

The ‘Hands-On-Day’ is our own annual event, and for many it is also the social highlight of the year.  This is our excuse to celebrate what we do, and share it with like-minded people.  With visitors coming from far and wide, the main aim of the day is to get your hands dirty.  With as many members as can, demonstrating their chosen field, you just walk  up to them and ask “can I have a go?” 

http://coppicegroup.wordpress.com/hands-on-day/

On July 2nd this year, we were very lucky once again to use the site at Fernhurst Furnce.  The Furnace is a scheduled national monument and we are always very keen to support Robin & Carla Barnes in their ongoing efforts to maintain it.  www.fernhurstfurnace.co.uk

There was a fantastic ‘buzz’ around the campfire, with on-site catering providing lunch and evening meals, and a large barrel of local ale, many members also took the opportunity for two nights camping.

This year’s thanks from our chairman….

” Dear all,
By all accounts the weekend was a success, though obviously we are already looking for ways to improve for next year! 

Whether you were there or not feel free to drop me a line with ideas and in particular contact details of people who you think would appreciate an invitation or, even better, would come along and demo/teach/get involved. 
Special thanks must go to our hosts Robin & Carla Barnes who, once again provided a fantastic site and facilities. 
Also Mark Allery whose efforts before during and after were invaluable, Pete Jameson whose auctioneering improves every year, Will & Gemma (and Mr Bert), Tim & Angela, Debbie Bartlett and her trusty troubadour Nigel, and of Course Dave Rossney who kept us fed and watered throughout. 
There are numerous others whose contributions were greatly appreciated. Everybody mucked in and got on; just the way it should be. 
Thank you all. 
I look forward to seeing you all at the AGM at Buchan C.P. on July 28th 7.30. 
Cheers,
John S “

 We’ve got hundreds of photographs streaming in from many of our members, and we hope to have a gallery of the best ones available for you soon.

A wide range of courses was on offer over the six day period.  This was an opportunity to enjoy an insight into the fascinating world of making traditional products from our coppiced woodlands.   Many of the tutors still make their living from producing such products so this was a golden opportunity to learn traditional crafts from real craftsmen.

Have a look at pages 5-10 in our latest newsletter, to read reviews from some of the students who attended.  Autumn 2011 SSCG News

With many thanks as always going to the wonderful Debbie Bartlett for compiling this report for us, following the 2010 South East Coppice Conference.

2010 South East Coppice Conference Report

One of our long standing members runs his own blog site, why not have a look and get his perspective on the conference…

http://woodlandantics.wordpress.com/2010/10/13/coppice-conference-2010/

A recent e-mail from one of our members:

“I’m not sure how many of you are aware, but at present the current TPO system is under review/simplification. The gov published a proposed draft in September which they would like feedback/consultation on. The proposal & feedback forms are all on the link below for those of you who are interested in voicing your opinions.”

The closing date is 20th December 2010, let them know what you think…..

http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/treestreamliningconsult

The Forestry Commission would like to invite you to the Surrey Woodland Forum, being held at Warren Barn Farms, Dorking, RH5 6DG.  The agenda has now been set.  The day will begin with coffee at 10.00am and conclude with a free informal buffet at 12.30pm.  There are still a few places available, so if you are interested, please complete and return the Booking Form – Surrey Woodland Forum to:

Gillian Brown (Mrs)
Admin OfficerForestry Commission
South East England Region
Alice Holt
Farnham GU10 4LF
 
Direct Tel: 01483 326218
gillian.brown@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

If you are interersted in coming and have not yet completed and returned the booking form, please let Gillian know by 5th November 2010.  All bookings will be confirmed by email.

The first course is ‘Bent Wood Furniture’ with Richard Hobbs, Saturday 23rd October, please click below for more details:

                                    Bent Wood Furniture

The rest of the Course details for Autumn/Winter 2010/11 will be uploaded soon, please visit our new “Courses” page regularly for updates.