AN ancient craft is alive and well in Dorset.

The county’s branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association (SWA) has won a national award.

Dorset SWA won the small branch of the year award, which is judged on the level of activity, the number of events held and the number of people trained and accredited with a qualification.

Secretary Sally Fielding said: “I travelled to Edinburgh with group member Merrie Wilson to receive the award from the national chairman of the association at the AGM.

“He congratulated us on being the clear winners and said he was impressed with the level of activity for such a small branch.”

The group is launching a scheme in association with the Princes Trust to help encourage people aged under 40 and working or studying agriculture or other rural industries to train inthe craft.

Pictured right are Sally Fielding and Merrie Wilson receiving their award from the national chairman. For details visit dorsetdwa.org.uk or call Sally on 01305 871403.