A FREE hedge laying class is taking place ahead of an annual tradition.

Melplash Agricultural Society is running a free taster day session for those interested in learning the skill of laying a hedge in the Dorset style.

The session will take place from 10am until 3pm on Sunday, September 5. The location is yet to be confirmed but will be close to Bridport.

The taster day will be led by a team of local skilled experts and professional hedge layers, giving up their time for free to pass on their knowledge and skills to others.

All trainees will then be encouraged to put their skills to the test by entering the novice class at the annual Melplash Agricultural Society hedge laying competition which takes place on the same day as the annual ploughing match on Sunday, September 19 on land at Hingsdon, near Netherbury.

The annual tradition is going ahead for the first time in two years having been cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic.

Everyone is welcome to come along to the matches and spectate. The event's organisers are working to ensure the event can be run safely with plenty of open-air space. More information on what Covid precautions will be in place will be advised nearer the time.

There will be plenty of refreshments available and the society's Discover Farming team will also be on hand to offer a range of activities for children to take part in and learn more about farming and agriculture.

To attend the free taster session or for more information, call the society office on 01308 423337 or email office@melplashshow.co.uk