Willow To Weave

Help us bring the region’s willow heritage back to life — from field to basket, from story to sculpture.

For generations, willow was at the heart of our local communities. Families grew it, harvested it, and worked together in cottage industries to make baskets, furniture and tools. Those stories — and the skills that kept them alive — are now at risk of being lost.

At Burscough Community Farm, we want to change that. Through our Willow to Weave project, we will:

• Plant and grow more willow to restore its heritage in our landscape.

• Run community workshops in weaving, carving, and sculpture.

• Host exhibitions (online and in person), sharing local stories, memories, photos and objects connected to willow.

• Promote wellbeing through green social prescribing, helping people connect with nature and each other.

• Create new opportunities for those who struggle with conventional work, providing them with a space to learn, create, and contribute.

Why Your Support Matters

We need to show funders that our community cares about willow heritage. By signing up, you’re not just expressing interest — you’re giving us the evidence we need to unlock funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and other supporters.

Together, we can:

• Preserve our region’s history.

• Restore our landscapes.

• Pass on skills to future generations.

• Create a thriving community space rooted in tradition and creativity.

Get Involved

Add your name below to show your support.

Whether you’d like to take part in workshops, volunteer, share your family’s willow stories, or simply cheer us on, every sign-up counts.

What participants will gain from joining Willow to Weave

• Improved wellbeing through time outdoors and hands-on creativity.

• New skills in weaving, coppicing, furniture making and sculpture.

• Opportunities to connect with others and share local heritage.

• A chance to help restore wildlife habitats through planting and caring for willow.

Just to let you know

This project will only go ahead if we secure funding. By signing up, you are helping us demonstrate the community support needed to make this possible. Your details will only be used to evidence interest in the project and to keep you updated on its progress.