Trust Teaches Dry Stone Dyking

Published: 10 June 2013

Training Group show off their wall sectionZoomShetland Amenity Trust recently held introductory training courses in the art of Dry Stone Dyking, where participants were given a basic understanding of the principles and skills required to get started.

Stonemason,Robbie Arthur, led 25 participants in three single-day courses at Sumburgh Head, where Shetland Amenity Trust stonemasons are currently building new drystone dykes as part of the improvement project underway.

Profile of the wallZoomThe course started with the basics; explaining the importance of the profile of a wall, and how that maintains the shape and integrity of the finalstructure. The participants were shown how to begin a wall and how to set the stones in properly to ensure a straight and level result. The golden rule, according to Robbie is "If you don't start right, you'll never get the wall right and straight."

Dave Phillips who attended the course commented, "I now have the knowledge to do small projects in the garden with the aim after practice to go for something larger."  Magnus Malcolmson, another aspiring Dry Stone Dyker, also found the course gave him the basic skills to start a garden project.

Nicola Leask said "I really enjoyed the course and certainly learned from it. (Robbie) was easy going but gave subtle pointers as we went. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxed intro to dry stone dyking."

The Trust may look to run additional courses in future if there is public demand. Anyone who is interested should email info@shetlandamenity.org with their contact details and they will be added to a waiting list.

Misty day for the second group as they show off their wall.Zoom Third Group with their wall secionZoom