COMMONERS learned how to lay hedges on a two-day course run by the New Forest Land Advice Service.

Managing hedges using traditional techniques instead of mechanical methods encourages vigorous regrowth and ensures hedges live longer.

Mechanically managed hedges can develop gaps at their base through which livestock can pass, further damaging the hedge.

Rhys Morgan, New Forest Land Advice Service Advisor, said: “The course was a great success, with glorious weather and 22 people attending over the two days.

“The highlight for me was seeing a group of mostly strangers go from not knowing how to lay a hedge at the beginning of the day to working as a team to lay a sizeable section of hedge by the end.

“We are planning to run another hedge-laying course next year after the success of this event.

“We want to ensure that we teach these crucial skills to as many commoners and local landowners as possible in order to improve hedgerows in the National Park.”

For information on future training courses, or if you own hedgerows within the New Forest in need of renewal, email Rhys.Morgan@nflandadvice.org.uk.