Humble beginnings
Hedgelaying declined after the 1939-1945 war due to many factors such as the availability of labour, the introduction of machines to cut hedges, wire fences and changes in agriculture that placed emphasis on food production.
By the 1960s hedges were declining at an alarming rate. Lack of maintenance meant that hedges became tall and gappy with sparse growth at the base; in effect a line of trees. Many hedges were, with the aid of government grants, grubbed out to make larger fields that could be more efficiently managed by larger machinery.
In around 1977 three hedge layers – Mr Fred Whitefoot, Mr Clive Matthew, and the late Miss Valerie Greaves (pictured below) realised that soon the valuable skills of hedgerow management that had been acquired over hundreds of years would be lost forever. They collated a list of hedgelayers and events around the country and with the help of the Farmers Weekly published a letter asking for a show of interest.
On 11th November 1978, twenty six people from around the country attended the first ever meeting of the society held at the HQ of the Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE). Together they formed the National Hedgelaying Society.
From strength to strength
Miss Greaves in particular played a very important part in the early years of the society both as secretary and also attending shows around the country with a promotional stall explaining the skill of hedgelaying and encouraging people to become members. In 1986 she produced a booklet called ’Hedgelaying Explained’ in which she describes most of the regional styles and the methodology of hedgelaying.
The society went from strength to strength, holding a National competition every year in many different parts of the country. They continued to attend the Royal Show in particular and it was at that show that the then Prince of Wales came across the NHLS stand run by John Savings of Oxfordshire. John had a marvellous display of miniature laid hedges in different styles and the Prince was enthralled by them . John was asked by the Prince to teach him the craft who then attended a National Championships as a spectator. Soon it became a hobby of his Royal Highness and he became patron of the society. He continues to support the society to this day.
Present day
The National Hedgelaying Society is flourishing and continues to develop and grow. We now have over 400 members involved with many projects including an Accreditation scheme, Train the Trainers course and apprenticeship placements. To learn more about how you can get involved visit our Membership page.
In addition. we list a variety of events, catering to both enthusiasts and professionals involved in the traditional craft of hedgelaying. These events include regional and national competitions and demonstrations that highlight the skills and techniques essential to this ancient practice. Visit our Events page to find out more.
