Permaculture has been an increasing influence and important part of my life since 1992 when I attended an ‘Introduction to Permaculture’ course, then in 1994 we hosted a similar course at the smallholding where we lived in Hawkchurch Devon.
Later - having moved to a small Devonshire seaside town, I completed my PDC at Ourganics in 2008. Then with Aranya as my tutor I completed my diploma in March 2014 in time to go travelling on my narrowboat for 18 months, after which I worked at a local vets until I downsized.
More recently during 'lockdown' I downsized and relocated, from a large detached property to a small Victorian terraced cottage. My motivation was mainly to reduce my impact on the planet, save waste, eliminate car journeys, and have access to my family. I am presently on my narrowboat whilst renovating and improving the house where the location gives cycle access to the north, east and west via towpath and track, then south by road to local shops and facilities. The house will re-use water, be well insulated and I am retaining as many original features as possible and doing much of the work with the help of my partner.
We already have solar hot water and Solar panels to generate electricity. I am also on the waiting list for a nearby allotment. For longer journeys we are well placed to use public transport, with local bus routes and a station at Trowbridge 12 miles away (which I can access mainly off road). All these combine to reduce my carbon footprint and enhance my life. The less I use a car, the less inclined I am to do so! Life is far more interesting without one!
I have over the years attended training in organic growing, perennial vegetables, & countryside management, and I have a particular interest in zone 00 & mental wellbeing. More recently I have learned about 'Compassion focused therapy'.
I was a town councillor for 4 years (nick-named ‘The Council’s Conscience’) & have been involved in transition town work.
My interests:-
Low impact living, the natural world, zone 00, waste reduction & sewing from scraps.
Recent work:-
Dementia care
De cluttering and maximising use
Curtain making (including patchwork from waste fabric)
Useful items sewn from scraps
Mending, altering & patching clothes
Property/boat ‘make-overs’ without waste
Carbon footprint reduction
Garden designs