WoodlandsTV - February 2011
Stone Age Cooking using acorn flour
Once again Woodlands TV is in the mesolithic hut with Cristine and Ian from ESAMP ( East Sussex Archaeological and Museums Partnership). Following on from the previous programme they are experimenting with cooking acorn flour sweetened with blackberry juice. They also offer round some seeds from the Himalayan Balsam to try, as well as sloes. Again they pass on a wealth of information to a young audience as well as testing their tastebuds. The relaxed and informal discussion throws up such gems as how to use running water to leach acorns , and making fruit leather. Essential viewing.
Cooking With Wild Food in a Mesolithic Hut
Inside a re-creation of a mesolithic hut based on archaeological evidence, a group of children are spellbound. The adults show them the way sour fruit such as crab apples can be sweetened by roasting over the fire, and what can be eaten straight from the tree. Everything is tasted and compared. Haws and their medicinal propertied are discussed as well as “bletting” and fruit from the wild service tree. This is the first of 3 films Woodlands TV shot inside the hut. The only available light came from the fire, the chimmney and the door. As more children crowded in the doorway the light was reduced, but we carried on shooting because of the fascinating information been passed on. Hardly anything has been edited either because of the relaxed, natural style. So whilst things are slow moving and reflective this repays watching. The picture may be better if watched in full screen which lifts the light a little – or you could just sit back and enjoy the knowledge and skill of Cristine and Ian from ESAMP. In the 2 programmes to come, they look at a wider range of foods such as sloes, acorn flour, fruit leather and nettle “crisps”. A memorable, atmospheric experience not only for the audience but Woodlands TV too!
Making a rose arch from hazel rods
A rose arch made from hazel is always an attractive addition to any garden. Rosie Rendell discovered how to make one by going on a course at West Dean College, Chichester. WoodlandsTV talked to her whilst she was making one at the Weald Wood Fair in Sussex. Using a side adze to split the hazel ,and a mould with pre drilled holes Rosie discusses the points to look out for including a top tip to make your rose arch last longer. She is gaining more experience and skill working with Wildwood Charcoal and Coppice Products.