Fourteen competitive hedge-layers contested places in four different classes at our 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

(Pictured above L to R) All Winners: Steven Boyes, William Bell, Andrew Kirkwood, Peter Gibson, David Whittaker, John Gibson, Jasper Patchek, Pater Stevens, Sally Capewell and John Handley

(Pictured above L to R) Class Winners: William Bell, Andrew Kirkwood, Peter Stevens and Sally Capewell

Ruth Kirk, 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.”

More images of the day's competition are available at this link: Hedging Competition Facebook Album