Rudy Hewlett is a thatching apprentice with the National Society of Master Thatchers working with his father, Master Thatcher Steven Hewlett, in Salisbury, Wiltshire. Growing up watching his father at work on cottages, barns, historic buildings and more, Rudy has always been immersed in the craft and is now training to become the fourth generation in the family business. He began full-time apprenticeship training in July 2023, building on earlier experience spent helping on site during school holidays.
QEST will contribute towards the next three years of Rudy’s apprenticeship, supporting his development in all aspects of traditional thatching. Under the guidance of his father and an additional mentor, Rudy is gaining confidence and hands-on experience in practical skills, site management and sustainable use of materials. His training is designed to ensure Rudy develops the foundations of thatching while maintaining high standards of craft and safety.
Rudy’s long-term ambition is to take over the family business, continuing the legacy of skilled thatching and ensuring the craft is preserved and passed on for future generations.
