The sun was up, and I was out to photograph charcoal burner Tom Sargeant in West Wight. The photos show the control phase of the burn. Later tonight, Tom will close the kiln and in 3-4 days, he’ll check the results.
Tom is part of a group managing the woodland through coppicing and tree planting. Some coppice is used for charcoal, hazel for hurdles, and the rest for firewood. Tom explains that well-managed woods benefit wildlife as light reaches the forest floor.
Next, the charcoal is bagged and distributed to local retailers like Orchard Bros in Freshwater and Warren Farm in Totland. Tom emphasizes that locally made charcoal is better than imported charcoal as it’s free of chemicals, supports woodland management, and boosts the rural economy.
Tom Sargeant
Early morining at the kiln
Sand being put around the kiln to reduce the airflow.
Sometimes charcoal burning is a waiting game
A two year old coup
Coppiced wood waiting to be made into charcoal
Last years's coup where a number of ash standards were felled due to ash die back desease
Withywood charcoal
Tim at the Orchard Bros store in Freshwater Bay
