Completed stretch of hedge

Leybourne Way

19th Annual Hedge-Laying
Competition
by the South of England
Hedge-Laying Society at

Leybourne Lakes, Larkfield
15th February 2003

Bending down to form the shape
Cutting the base with chainsaw

finishing off the top

Tamping down the top
Over 40 competitors, all trained in the ancient craft of hedge laying, took part in transforming the 450ft hedgeland bordering Leybourne Lakes country park and Leybourne Way in Kent. The wood, mainly blackthorn was cut at the stem, layered across at an angle and held with chestnut stakes at 18 inch intervals. It was secured at the top by woven hazelwood bindings.
... pulling down, its nearly there Mainly blackthorn wood pliable enough to make the hedge
The hedge when grown, becomes thick and strong and a benefit to wildlife.It gives a haven to small birds and mammals with protection from magpies and crows which destroy nests and eggs. The hedge should last twenty years if trimmed annually.
This road has certainly benefited from this ancient craft which now gives views across the lakes.
Cutting in with a billhook Finished stretch of hedge

 

Return to East Malling & Larkfield Parish Council

Pictures taken by David Severn 2003