Guest blog by Lynda Cregan from the National Hedgelaying Society
Since beginning my Hedgelaying adventure some 5 years ago with the fantastic Blackdown Hills Hedge Association, I have truly learnt the importance of maintaining and protecting our nation’s hedgerows. They are the defining characteristic of our beautiful countryside and house mini ecosystems for a massive array of plants, birds and wildlife. Here in Devon, hedgerows are home to some rare species such as the dormouse and cirl bunting.
Every hedgerow in the country is trying to grow into a row of trees. As important stock barriers for farmers, these must be maintained to ensure they are fit for purpose.
Laying a hedge involves removing excess growth, dead and strangling plants and creating a fuller, thicker hedge. The healthy remaining stems are partially cut and laid to promote new growth and fill any gaps at the base. Hedges that are top trimmed only will become gapping and woody at the base. No good if you have sheep to contain!
The first picture shows a freshly laid hedge and the second shows the same hedge after a couple of month's regrowth:
The number and differences in regional styles proves the diversity and significance of the hedge rows in this country. From Westmorland and Cheshire in the North, to Devon and Dorset in the South, there is a local style of hedgelaying. No two areas have the same hedges or styles. Many are similar, but tailored to the needs of the plant species, hedge uses and landowner requirements. Climate, landscape and raw materials are all factored into to the characteristics of a particular style.
My own cutting style is Devon and has become a family affair! My father has been hedgelaying for over sixty years and my own son, now 8 competes alongside myself and my husband. The joy I have experienced from not only mastering a new craft but providing such an important environmental and ecological service is immense. Devon bank hedges are truly splendid and some can be dated back to medieval times. They are unique and sometimes truly massive! Ladders are an essential part of the tool kit.
My windswept hedge at Devon rural skills competition. Hand tools only
I regularly take part in local competitions during the hedgelaying season and added the first silverware to my collection of certificates this year! It’s a truly addictive craft to learn and, whilst not a typical female pastime, has been completely rewarding! Give me chainsaw boots over high heels any day! Crisp autumn mornings out hedgelaying are most definitely good for the soul!
Hedgelaying is an ancient craft enjoying a revival in fashion, part way thanks to the National Hedgelaying Society (NHLS). The Society’s aim is to promote hedgelaying across the country, and is celebrated in the annual NHLS National Championship. This year spectators can view expert craftsmen at work in 10 regional styles at the wonderful National Trust Stourhead House and Gardens in Wiltshire on October 28th.
I joined the NHLS to increase my knowledge and now have the pleasure of editing the society’s newsletter that is sent to members three times a year. I have made many great friends and hope to continue to encourage others to give hedging a go!
It is the aim of the NHLS, as well as my own, to encourage the next generation to continue to learn the important skill of hedgelaying. I have enjoyed visiting a local school to chat to the children about it, play “name the hedgerow plant” and make willow sculptures to decorate the school fence. The children were inspired and requested a living willow reading pod. Funds were raised and now in its second year, it is an established “wigloo” for the children to use for quiet time and reading.
There are numerous local societies that run excellent, hands-on training courses. Many provide tools, so all you need is some tough gloves, decent boots and plenty of enthusiasm.
Details of the NHLS, local organisations and events are all available on the NHLS website,
More details on the National Championship and how to attend can also be found on the website. The event is a real showcase for the craft of hedgelaying and a great family day out. There is an opportunity to “Have a go”, Refreshments, Raffle, Children’s quiz and activities, Display of Bonsai hedges laid in regional styles, Rural craft demonstrations, vintage machinery and old tools and the all-important “Helpful Hedgehogs” available on the day to explain hedgelaying.