But now though, the skills behind the art have been laid bare to a much wider audience, as a West Yorkshire walling project has released a unique DVD.

The Upper Colne Valley Dry Stone Walling Project, based near Mirfield, says it wants to show "Mr Average" how to be a dry stone waller.

Neil Windett, Kirklees Council's countryside manager, said: "The DVD is called Dry Stone Walling – The Essential Guide. Itaims to be the definitive filmed guide to dry stone walling and will provide instructors nationally and internationally with an effective training tool.

"It gives expert advice and instruction on basic dry stone walling techniques and highlights different styles of construction around the country."

The film came about after the Colne Valley project received £37,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund, money set aside for raising awareness of the ancient work.

Like the complete craftspeople they are, the stone wallers have spotted the need for a suitable soundtrack behind the footage of their members at work.

With that in mind, they drafted in local composer Stephen Bradnum, who wrote Landscapes exclusively for the DVD.

The music was then performed by the Kirklees Youth Symphony Orchestra and the Colne Valley Male Voice Choir before being added to the film.

Brian Wood, secretary of the Yorkshire Dry Stone Walling Guild, welcomed the DVD. He said recent years had seen experts working to pass the knowledge on, to ensure the craft survives for future generations.

Brian said: "It really is a splendid idea. We are very keen to instil the information into the minds of younger people, and we run regular courses to try and do that. This DVD can only help keep the whole thing alive."

The DVD is on sale at council information points across Kirklees, or can be ordered by ringing 015395 67953. Alternatively, email orders to information@dswa.org.uk.