Many of the costumes in wild man traditions are built from elements at the edge of the wilderness. Furs and branches from the woods, straw and flowers from the fields, rags and animal bells from the farm.

The natural wilderness seems further from reach in the park. In searching for materials to build my wild man costume from, I found myself turning to the poundshops, discount stores and army surplus of Barrow-in-Furness. Discounted summer-themed products, bath-mat furs, boiler suits and bath loofahs become the raw materials with which to build.

The costume should cover the performer so that they are not easily recognised, so that they can take on whichever wild man role is required. It should be a striking form, filled with wonder and unease.

Wild men characters often carry a staff, to lean on as they travel, or to beat those who do not please them, or to beat out boundaries on the territory.