Hedgelaying Competition - a very successful day

      We held our annual hedgelaying competition on Sunday 19th February at Wigmore Farm, Red Quar, Wells.  It was a hugely successful day with 23 competitors travelling from Devon and Dorset as well as all over Somerset.  8 competitors competed against each other in the Open Class whilst the Novice Class saw 15 entries fighting it out for 1st prize.  

With the weather staying dry there was a record number of people coming along to have a look at this traditional country craft being practiced.  There was a steady flow of supporters and spectators attending throughout the day to watch and enjoy the day.

The Show’s President; The Lady Waldegrave of North Hill, OBE said “I am delighted to be able to attend today’s event and to present the prizes.  It is great to see such a wide age range competing.  It is very encouraging to see the younger generation wanting to learn this traditional countryside craft.”    The Show would like to thank the Waldegrave Family for allowing them to use their land.  

The standard was high and the competition fierce but by the end of the day the judges made their decision:

Results:

Open Class

1^st & Champion – Mike Reed (Chew Magna)

2^nd & Res Champion – Alex Bown (Binegar)

3^rd – Chris Chivers (Mid Somer Norton)

4^th – Tina Bath (Priddy)

5^th – Steve Mcullock

6^th – Alex Hannam (Winscombe)

Novice Class

1^st – Clive Bethell (Shapwick),

2^nd – Roger Parrish (Honiton, Devon)

3^rd – Kirk Ruddle (Cheddar)

4^th  – Harry Dale (Langport )

5^th – Robert Wood (Dorchester)

6^th – Dave Brackley (Stoke St Michael)

Over 60’s

1^st – Clive Bethell

2^nd – Roger Parrish

Under 25’s

1^st – Harry Dale