The 25th Durham Hedgelaying Competition recently took place at Woodland Hall Farm, Knitsley, drawing skilled hedgelayers from across the region to compete for the title of County Durham’s champion. Held on Friday, October 11th, the event was organized by Durham County Council in partnership with the Durham Hedgerow Partnership. It aimed to promote greater understanding of the ancient craft and encourage younger generations to take up the tradition.
The competition was open to everyone and celebrated hedgelaying, a centuries-old method of maintaining healthy hedgerows. Cllr Mark Wilkes, Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and climate change, highlighted the importance of hedgerows for wildlife, carbon capture, and flood prevention, calling them “nature’s multitaskers.”
Competitors had five hours to lay around seven meters of hedge, judged on criteria such as neatness, quality of cuts, and adherence to traditional styles. The event provided a great opportunity for attendees to watch the skilled hedgelayers in action, learn about field boundary management, and meet local experts.
The competition continues to shine a light on this vital, eco-friendly craft, keeping it alive for future generations.
