On Saturday, the Isle of Wight Hedgelaying Competition put on a remarkable showcase of rural craftsmanship, organised by local charity, Wight Nature Fund.

Hosted at Park Farm Barns, on Middle Road, on land owned by Mike Morris, the competition saw participants wield axes, billhooks, and chain-saws to create living, stock-proof hedgerows. Around 150 spectators, some travelling across the Solent, gathered under mostly sunny skies to witness the traditional countryside craft, with some newcomers learning about hedge-laying for the first time.

Former National Hedgelaying Champion, Derrick Hale, travelled from Derbyshire to judge the five-hour competition. “The event was well organised with a clear enthusiasm for restoring hedgerows,” he said, highlighting the importance of the skill in revitalising landscapes.

The competition saw Kingsley Hollis secure the top prize in the Open class, narrowly defeating Tom Murphy by four points. Novice winner, Rod Warne, and team champions, The Tree Fellas, also walked away with prizes donated by local businesses.

Adding an international dimension, German broadcaster ZDF covered the event for their flagship news programme, interviewing ecologist, Ian Boyd, along with competitors and spectators.

Thomas Cowley, Trustee of Wight Nature Fund, emphasised the environmental and visual benefits of hedge-laying. “There are many benefits to hedge-laying,” he said. “Aside from the ability to contain livestock in a more natural and environmentally beneficial manner, it’s visually stunning.”

He also hinted at the local charity, adding another date to the hedge-laying calendar in November, the traditional start to the season.

“Community spirit and sustainability came together in an incredible way today,” he concluded, praising the volunteers and local businesses who made it all possible.