The warm two-handed clasp, the ready smile… unassuming drystone waller Adam Clarke has come face-to-face with the new King.
Adam, 39, from Greenfield, was presented with a unique prestigious award as the young ambassador to the craft of drystone walling by the then Prince of Wales at a special Drystone Wallers Association ceremony.
And separately, Adam is one of only 12 people ever to receive a Pinnacle Award from the association for a drystone summerhouse, built a few years ago in a private garden near Emley Moor.
The scheme recognises outstanding projects incorporating dry stone walling and is designed to embrace a wide spectrum of work although only the most outstanding projects incorporating the very best of craftsmanship, innovative use of design and inspirational use of stone are be considered for the award.
The summer house
Adam, who has worked in Switzerland, France, Canada and at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London, said: “It was amazing to meet The King face to face.”
But Adam said his real focus is “to support young people get into the trade. In fact, I have three young lads working with me doing everything from field repairers to large garden projects.”
The Drystone Wallers Association's aims are to promote a greater understanding and knowledge about the traditional craft of dry stone walling and to encourage the repair and maintenance of dry stone walls throughout the country.
They have a network of branches across the country with each one organising a wide range of activities throughout the year, including training courses, practice days and demonstrations at local shows and events.
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