Celebrating Bro Preseli’s Hedgerows: Join Us for Caru Cloddiau in Brynberian

Hedgerows are the quiet lifeblood of the Welsh landscape. Far more than simple field boundaries, the ancient cloddiau surrounding the Afon Nyfer provide vital wildlife corridors, shelter, and a living connection to our shared rural heritage. As autumn settles over the Preseli hills, there is no better time to slow down, explore the edges of our fields, and celebrate the incredible biodiversity tucked away in these native boundaries.

On Saturday, 24th October, Canolfan Llwynihirion in Brynberian will play host to Caru Cloddiau (Hedges and Edges)—a free, immersive community gathering hosted as part of the Coedwigoedd Bro Preseli project. Rather than a formal conference, the day offers a hands-on journey through the craft, folklore, and ecology that make our local hedgerows so special.

The day begins by tuning into the practical heritage of the land. Local hedge-layer Chris Roscoe will lead a morning session dedicated to the traditional art of hedge-laying. By learning how to work with living wood, manage different hedge species, and create dense boundaries, visitors will gain a deeper appreciation for how this historical craft directly supports present-day conservation and wildlife habitat.

As the afternoon arrives, the focus shifts from practical landwork to the magic of the surrounding woodland. Ecologist Max Henderson and foraging guide Dan Moar from Hydref Collective will lead a 'Mythic Forager' walk through the ancient trees of Ty Canol. Wandering through this atmospheric landscape, participants will discover wild autumn edibles, learn which plants to leave untouched, and listen to the rich mythology and folklore woven into the local geography.

Throughout the entire day, the hall will be alive with colour and creativity. Authors and artists Seren Stacey and Kelly Cracknell ('Celf yn y Coed') will run family-friendly natural craft sessions. Visitors can try their hand at foraging for earth pigments—turning simple soil, clay, and plant materials into rich paints—before using them to decorate autumn bunting while picking up conversational Welsh along the way. To tie the ecosystem together, ecologist Neil Harnott will also share insights on how diversifying roadside verges can turn ordinary transport routes into thriving havens for native flora and pollinators.

Whether you drop in to make natural paints with the family, listen to local lore, or pick up a new skill in land management, Caru Cloddiau brings together the many threads of countryside life into one cohesive celebration.

Event Details & Joining Us

• Date: Saturday, 24th October 2026

• Time: 10:00 – 16:00

• Location: Canolfan Llwynihirion, Brynberian, SA41 3TY (riverboat.city.tripled)

• Cost: Free

General admission, the verges talk, and the family craft sessions are drop-in with no prior booking required.

Spaces are limited for both the morning hedge-laying workshop and the afternoon 'Mythic Forager' walk. To reserve a place for either of these specific sessions, please send an email to emma@cwmarian.org.uk.