The Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain is delighted to report that Dave Goulder, DSWA Master Craftsman, has been awarded a BEM in the 2025 New Years Honours List for services to Dry Stone Walling and to the community of Rosehall, Sutherland.

 

Over his 40 years as a DSWA member, he has regularly delivered training courses in the north of Scotland and previously was an Assessor for the DSWA, contributing hugely to the continued existence of our craft, particularly in Sutherland, in the north of Scotland generally and the Western Isles.

He has also Instructed on courses in the USA and Canada where the craft has undertaken a resurgence. Through his own personal enthusiasm for the craft, aided by the respect he has earned within his own and the wider community, he has encouraged many other younger people to take up the craft and become professional Dykers too. This has resulted in the restoration of previously derelict walls and enhancement of the landscape by avoiding the unnecessary use of fencing.

His natural ability with words and song has also entertained and enthused others to appreciate that our craft has and continues to contribute to the wider cultural fabric of Scotland and beyond. His skill as a Dyker and Instructor have been an essential part of keeping the craft and culture alive in Sutherland in particular, inspiring others to take up the craft.

He is a true ambassador of the craft.

Congratulations Dave, from all of us as DSWA-GB on your well deserved honour.