Fourteen competitive hedge-layers contested places in four different classes at Friends of the Lake District’s Annual Hedge Laying Competition on Saturday 19th January laying 104 metres of hedge between them.
The event, held near Sod House Farm, Penny Bridge, Ulverston and supported by community led Landscape Partnership Scheme Rusland Horizons, was part of the Lancashire & Westmorland Hedge Laying Association Grand Prix series bringing together novices, juniors and professionals to show off their skills.
After competing in 4 different classes, the winners were chosen by the judges, local farmers Ian Nelson and Gordon Strickland. The results were as follows:
- OVERALL WINNER Andrew Kirkwood from Endmoor, Kendal
- MOST IMPROVED John Handley
- SAMURAI SAW PRIZE John Handley
CHAMPIONSHIP Class
1st Andrew Kirkwood
2nd Peter Gibson
3rd Jasper Patchek
OPEN Class
1st William Bell
2nd Steven Boyes
3rd John Gibson
NOVICE Class
1st Sally Capewell
STARTER Class
1st Peter Stevens
Ruth Kirk, Friends of the Lake District competition organiser said: “A well laid hedge not only provides a barrier for livestock which is attractive to look at and intrinsic to the appeal of the Lake District landscape; it’s also an important habitat for some of our declining countryside birds. The skill and technique required to lay a hedge well can’t be underestimated. It’s heartening to know so many people are keen to keep this rural skill alive and thriving.”
