Much has been achieved since 2007 when restoration of the Barn began. The old timbers were repaired using locally sourced wood and eased back into position. The old corrugated metal roof was removed, the original pitch discovered, restored and 20,000 hand-crafted shingles used to cover it. A tool shed has been built on one end that has daub under the roof tiles for added insulation and a rest room is being repaired at the back of the Barn.
But during all this activity we haven’t forgotten the wildlife that lives in the area. Many of our deadwood screens, not only providing support for piles of compost or shelter from the wind, also provide a home for bugs and birds.
Recently we’ve tried to attract house martins to nest on the Barn by providing a 5-bay cob terrace complete with oak roof as pictured.
And of course birds are always looking for safe spots to nest and this year we have a pair of blackbirds and a pair of thrushes nesting inside the Barn with homes high up on the wall-plate.
If you’d like to get involved then please visit our website www.orchardbarn.org.uk or phone 01473-658193 or drop in on a Wednesday, we are SW of Mill Road, Battisford.