RHC for Devon, Rosie Wibberley, hosted a regional host gathering at her home, Middle Ruckham Farm, in May this year. Host Michael Heard of Cheristow Lavender attended and sent this feedback.
We had a lovely day looking around your farm, and it was really nice to talk to the other WWOOF hosts and share experiences at the informal eats afterwards. I would definitely recommend other WWOOF hosts to attend the next meeting… but leave your car at the top of the drive if Rosie hosts it again!
What it made me think about was how different we are all as hosts and what we have to offer WWOOFers varies tremendously, from basic accommodation and an off-grid experience in the middle of a field to grand houses with all en-suite facilities and fancy gardens. It must be a daunting task for WWOOFers to choose a host that meets their expectations and needs, just as it is hard for us to try and get the right WWOOFers for what we would like.
I am very pleased to say that ninety-nine per cent of our experiences have been very positive and rewarding. We have learnt a lot from our WWOOFers, and hopefully they have gained a few weeks of doing something different to their normal lifestyle. We certainly have kept in touch with several of them and some have become close friends.
And looking forward, Midlands Regional Host Contact David Beaton invites his hosts:
Thanks to a generous offer by Adam Cade we have arranged a fascinating Sunday afternoon for Midlands hosts at his Brewery House near Stamford on 12th October.
Not only will you be able to meet and chat to other WWOOOF hosts, but you can also take part in an apple pressing workshop. Adam, who is a member of Stamford Community Orchard Group will have several presses available for you to try your hand at making apple juice – bring your own bottles.
If you have apples you would like to be identified bring them along and press them if you wish. We are sure this will be an entertaining and interesting afternoon and are looking forward to meeting as many of you as possible. If you would like to attend please let David know using: davidbeaton@uwclub.net
