[T]hirteen hardy hedge-layers competed under a canopy of grey sky until the sunshine came out in the late afternoon to reveal magnificent snow-capped fells at Friends of the Lake District’s Annual Hedge Laying Competition on Saturday 20th January.
Ruth Kirk, Friends of the Lake District competition organiser said, “The rural skill of hedge-laying is very much alive and well and this event brings together some of the most skilled and experienced hedge-layers with novices who are looking to learn and improve their technique. A well laid hedge regenerates new growth providing a wonderful haven for wildlife, including declining birds as well as making the field stock proof for the farmer.”
The event, held near Gateside Farm, Burneside was part of the Lancashire & Westmorland Hedge Laying Association Grand Prix series bringing together novices, juniors and professionals to show off their skills and lay 100m of hedge between them.
After competing in 4 different classes, the winners were chosen by the judges, local farmers Trevor Sharp and David Galbraith. The results were as follows:
OVERALL WINNER Andrew Kirkwood from Endmoor, Kendal
MOST IMPROVED James Yates-Bell
SAMURAI SAW PRIZE Aiden Handley
CHAMPIONSHIP Class
1st Andrew Kirkwood
2nd Peter Gibson
3rd Jasper Patchek
OPEN Class
1st John Handley
2nd John Gibson
3rd William Bell
NOVICE Class
1st Aidan Handley
2nd Danny Hodgson
JUNIOR Class
1st James Yates-Bell
2nd James Dodgson
3rd Jake Dixon
