Hedgerow Heroes:
Hedgelaying workshops 2025

Hedgelaying workshops 2025

 

We will be running two 2-day hedgelaying workshops and a 1-day hedgelaying workshop for improvers in Autumn 2025.

(All dates are now full. If you are interested in taking part in future workshops or being on the waiting list email Sarah on admin@cpreshropshire.org.uk)

 

Dates 

 

2-day beginners' hedgelaying workshop: 10 & 11 November (fully booked)

 

2-day beginners hedgelaying, 12 & 13 November (fully booked)

 

We are also offering a one-day Improvers' workshop (only for people who have been on one of our workshops previously or who have previous experience of hedgelaying). This is not a tutored workshop and more a facilitated practice session.

 

1-day Improvers hedgelaying, 17 November (fully booked)

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More about our workshops:
 

Since 2021 we have run over twenty 2-day hedgelaying workshops for beginners in Shropshire with trainers Richard Clarke of Really Rural and Russell Critchley of Deadwood. 

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The workshops are a great opportunity for a hands-on, practical introduction to the traditional art of hedgelaying, taught with hand tools (no chainsaws!).

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On our workshops you will:

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• Learn about the history and benefits of hedgelaying 

• Discover hedgelaying techniques and tools (including maintenance of hand tools)

• Get hands-on hedgelaying practice (Midland/Border cross style - clear out deadwood, select and laying pleachers, trimming, staking and binding)

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Some background on our hedgelaying trainer

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Richard Clarke has over 20 years experience working in forestry and conservation and is a lecturer in Countryside Management. He has been leading our hedgelaying workshops since 2021.

On our workshops, trainees can get started on a traditional country skill that helps improve a hedge's structure and strength. A laid hedge provides a stock proof barrier, weather protection to crops, a corridor and shelter for wildlife.

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