For a brief spell each year, the North York Moors are transformed into a sea of iconic purple. The ling, or heather, is not quite at its peak yet; it remains patchy, especially here on Great Ayton Moor.
Some may argue that these vast stretches of purple moorland lack diversity and serve only the grouse shooting industry. Yet, it is worth noting that ling was once a valuable resource in the dales, widely used in construction. It served as thatch for homes and farm buildings alike. Its use was so widespread that in the 17th century manorial laws were introduced to protect it, forbidding its burning. Entire villages were once thatched with ling, often with straw laid atop it as the final covering.
Beyond construction, ling played a crucial role in another craft: the making of besoms, or brooms. This was a significant source of supplementary income for many rural families, particularly cottagers and smallholders. Besom making was a labour-intensive process, requiring specific tools and techniques. The besoms were used on farms, in homes, and even in industry. Made by the thousand, they were sent to shipyard foundries in the north of England and Scotland, mostly through dealers based at Pickering. Sold without handles, these besoms were used to skim scum off molten metal as it emerged from furnaces. If pieces fell into the mix, they were simply burned away; and after two sweeps, the besom was spent.
This demand fostered a small industry, primarily centered around Pickering. During the First World War, John Hall of Hartoft travelled by horse and trap to the town, where he sold besoms for 11d. a dozen. Yet, as agricultural practices and economic conditions shifted in the 20th century, the trade declined. Today, besom making is largely a lost art, kept alive by only a few enthusiasts.
Source
Hartley, Marie and Joan Ingilby. “Life and Tradition on The Moorlands of North-East Yorkshire”. Page 82+. J.M. Dent & Son. 1990. ISBN 1 870071 54 9.
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