Activity Outline
The hedge laying course will progress over the 4 days and will be tailored to the abilities and needs of the group. At the start of each session there will be a health and safety briefing, with an introduction to the tools needed to lay a hedge effectively, all of which will be provided by the instructors of Coppicewood College. Throughout the course your instructors will describe the various methods of hedge management, the different techniques used by Coppicewood to manage hedges effectively and explain both the history behind hedge laying as well as its various ecological benefits. Your instructors will also outline the reasons why they believe that hand tools are the “best for the job”.
During the course you will be taught how to make ‘a start’ on laying a hedge by watching a demonstration from your instructors and by having a go yourself with direct supervision. With the help of your instructors, you will be able to progress to each stage until you feel confident using each tool. At this point in the course, you will then be tasked with laying you own section of the hedge in question!
Where to Meet
The hedge laying course will take place at Dolau Llwydion, Boncath, SA37 0LA - SN 20456 36994 (you can find the property using ‘what three words’ - crunched.portfolio.lotteries). If you get lost please call Louise for directions on 07421456506. Please Park in the farmyard on the right just before the farmhouse.
What to Bring
- A good pair of gardening gloves – Coppicewood don’t recommend wearing a glove on the ‘tool hand’,
- A packed lunch,
- Drinking water (GBC will be providing hot water & biscuits during the lunch break),
- Your own mug and water bottle,
- Footwear to suit the weather - stout walking boots, wellies and/or safety boots,
- Waterproof jacket and trousers,
- Warm clothes,
- Notebook and pen,
- A camera.
Health & Safety
- The afternoon sessions will be outside, please ensure that you are equipped for changeable weather,
- Please be mindful of keeping a safe distance from other attendees,
- If you have been in close contact with someone with COVID-19, are feeling unwell or have COVID-19, please stay safe at home,
- These health and safety guidelines are subject to review in line with government regulations.
Recommended Reading
- Hedges and Hedge laying by Murray Maclean ISBN 1-86126-868-8, is an informative and comprehensive book covering every aspect of hedge management