FORTUNATELY the drizzly start to Saturday soon cleared and around 500 visitors enjoyed National Trust Swan Barn’s annual countryside crafts day.

A highlight of the event was Hawk on the Wild Side, with displays by falcons which have featured in films and on television.

Not only could visitors enjoy expert demonstrations of a wide range of traditional skills, they could also get stuck in themselves.

Members of the Black Down estate team showcased their own country talents, and crafts being demonstrated ranged from making roof shingles to pencils, willow weaving and fencing.

Local organisations attending included The Woodland Trust and Haslemere Natural History Society.

Head ranger David Elliott said: “The event was a great success. There was a lovely atmosphere and it was great to see our local countryside crafts people displaying their talents and wares.

“We are looking forward to seeing people here again for our community apple pressing day on September 28, when people can bring along their apples or join in as we put them through our historic pressing machinery to show how to make apple juice and cider.”