Countryfile

Somerset Willow Harvest (36x4)

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Joe Crowley is in the Somerset Levels to experience the history, heritage and farming of this unique wetland environment that stretches from the Mendips to the Blackdown Hills. Joe meets farmer Rich Roberts for his wintertime harvest of Somerset willow before getting hands-on to cut and prepare this versatile crop ready for sale. Just down the road, Joe sees how the harvested willow whip is crafted into luxury hampers, hot air balloon baskets and even eco coffins as he meets a Somerset family with long ties to the willow trade who are training the next generation of willow apprentices in this ancient heritage craft. Up in the Cotswolds, Adam Henson is busy restoring his ancient orchard with the hope of a fruitful apple harvest later in the year. And Charlotte Smith is investigating the return to Britain of the animal disease bluetongue.