Darren
With a career rooted in nature and traditional craftsmanship, Darren Hammerton brings over three decades of experience to his work. After eight years as a countryside ranger, Darren trained as an arborist, sparking a passion for woodland management—particularly in the restoration of ancient woodlands and the practice of coppicing. Over the past twenty-four years, he has revitalised and managed numerous coppice woodlands across Hampshire. Darren’s expertise spans most coppice crafts which are complemented by his deep knowledge of traditional timber framing.
Darren honed his skills in Medieval Timber Framing at the Weald and Downland Open Air Museum, a foundation that prepared him for his role as the Tree Wright at Butser Ancient Farm since 2015. There, he has designed and led the construction of historically accurate structures, including Neolithic houses, Iron Age roundhouses, and Anglo-Saxon long halls.
Passionate about sharing his knowledge, Darren has been a dedicated teacher for over twenty years, working as a freelance instructor with adults with learning difficulties and leading coppice craft courses at the Sustainability Centre and Butser Ancient Farm. His commitment to education has earned him a reputation as an accomplished mentor and teacher.
In addition to his teaching and woodland management, Darren undertakes private commissions, crafting bespoke timber-framed buildings ranging from outdoor classrooms for schools to granaries, barns, and even bus shelters. His extensive skill set and dedication to traditional crafts continue to inspire and educate those who share his love for woodland heritage and sustainable construction.
Patrick
After a 30-year career in the NHS Patrick was fed up with being indoors, and was seeking a more physical retirement, he met Darren through volunteering at Butser Ancient Farm. Having gained his chainsaw ticket Patrick helps with coppice management and has gradually increased his skills over the last 5 years to include: spar and hazel hurdle construction. He assists Darren with teaching, hedge laying and timber framing construction.
Imogen
Growing up on the North York Moors, Imogen developed a deep appreciation for plants and the wider countryside from an early age. Her passion for the natural world led her into a career in floristry and garden design, where she combined her creative flair with her love of the outdoors. With a background in teaching, Imogen brings an inspiring and artistic approach to South Downs Coppice and Craft, helping others connect with nature through traditional woodworking and craft.
Currently, Imogen works at Butser Ancient Farm, where she oversees the management and upkeep of the 12-acre site. Her role includes expanding the historical gardens, reflecting her ongoing commitment to preserving and celebrating our natural heritage. It was at Butser that she met Darren, sparking a shared enthusiasm for coppicing and heritage crafts. Now working part-time alongside him, Imogen is honing her skills in coppicing and associated crafts, learning the time-honoured techniques that have shaped the countryside for generations.
When she’s not working in the woods, Imogen can often be found cooking up something delicious in the Pixie Hut, adding a touch of magic to the woods experience. Her warm, creative spirit and deep knowledge of plants and traditional crafts make her an invaluable member of the team.
