clive cobie

either pulled a wagon or carried packs upon his broad shoulders. A very lovable dog, Shadow accompanied them on their ramblings. This team of three spent ten years travelling the highways and byways. During this time Clive learnt about the various native plants and their traditional uses, varied rural crafts like hedge laying, hurdle making, stone walling, leather work and basket making.

Clive returned to Sussex in the late 90s and met a lady who kindly let the wandering three stay upon her land. After spending one winter within this magical wood Clive knew his horse drawn days were over. There was a different journey to embark on. Jack went to a dear friend Margaret who loves and cares for him. His job now is taking disabled folk out for rides. He is loving his new life and has some nice meadows to munch.

Clive and his dog Shadow spent the next eight years living and working in the woods. During this time he learnt ever more about the history of the place and developed his knowledge of the flora, fauna, plant law and traditional crafts and skills.

Two years ago the lady of the woods Pom, enrolled Clive upon an NCFE Bushcraft Leadership course at Plumpton Collage run by John Ryder. Clive excelled in his studies and passed the course with flying colours. Since then he has been involved in preparing Shadow Woods so that he can share the knowledge that he has accrued over his many years of experience.

If asked what he is like Clive would no doubt tell you he is a flipperty gibbet.

For those unaccustomed to this term it means a person who has many interests.

He has spent much time travelling around the south of England with that ancient form of transport, a horse. Jack occasionally carried Clive but most of the time he