Hedge laying skill rewarded
The essential work of Exmoor’s hedgelayers has once again been recognised and rewarded through the 2012 Exmoor Hedge Competition.
High quality hedge laying is of huge benefit to Exmoor’s farming, wildlife and landscape. This work is very skilled and provides employment for numerous people during the winter months on Exmoor.
In recognition of this vital work, Exmoor National Park Authority launched the Exmoor Hedge Competition in partnership with the Devon and Somerset Hedge Groups, together with the generous support and sponsorship of the Exmoor Trust.
Dr Nigel Stone, Chief Executive of Exmoor National Park Authority and Susan May, Chairman of the Exmoor Trust, presented the prizes of up to £350 to the winning hedgelayers. In first place were father and son team Martyn and Justin Atkins from Exford, who laid the winning hedge belonging to Mike and Denise Stanbury of Combe Farm, Exford. Second prize went to Martyn Sloley of Brompton Ralph who laid the hedges for Mrs Mary Stacey of Higher Foxhanger Farm, Brompton Regis. In third place was a hedge belonging to Mrs Vanessa Mason of Carhampton whose hedge was also laid by Martyn and Justin.
Susan May, Chairman of the Exmoor Trust said she found it interesting to see the differing styles in hedge laying across Exmoor and commended this year's winners.She continued: “It is a wonderful skill to have and it is particularly pleasing that at least one father is passing on this skill to his son. The Exmoor Trust is very happy to support country crafts and skills- in particular hedgelaying - and feels it very important that they be retained.”
The first-prize winners received the beech trophy which was kindly donated by Mrs Stacey. Made by Stephen Simmonds, a local craftsman from Molland, the wood is from a laid Exmoor hedge. Martyn and Justin Atkins have also been invited to join the judges in deciding the winners of next year’s competition.
Heather Harley, Conservation Advisor (Farming & Wildlife) for Exmoor National Park Authority said “We are extremely grateful to the Exmoor Trust and the Devon and Somerset Hedge Groups for supporting this competition. This traditional skill is so important to the landscape within the National Park and an integral part of the rural community. Agri-environment support for hedge management has reduced dramatically over recent years and the future of hedge management on Exmoor is not certain. We hope that this competition goes a little way to promote the work of these craftsmen.”
Heather added “We will be running the competition again so we do encourage anyone planning their hedge laying this winter to give it a go and enter.”
For more information about the competition, grants for hedge management or farming and wildlife advice, you can contact Heather on 01398 322277 or