GREEN fingered people can give hedge laying a go – Dorset style.

The Melplash Agricultural Society is committed to keeping the traditional skill of hedge laying alive and for a number of years held a free taster day to give people the opportunity to learn how to lay a hedge in the Dorset style.

This year’s taster day will take place on Sunday, September 10, from 10am-3pm at Wyke Farm, Chedington in Beaminster.

Russell Woodham, a contract Dorset hedgelayer and Chairman of the Melplash  Agricultural Society Hedge laying section said:  “Attendees need strong boots, work and wet weather gear, strong gloves, (no trainers, no shorts, no Sunday football kit).

“If you have them a sharp Billhook, hand saw, silky type saw, loppers, hand axe, and no chainsaws.”

He also advises to bring a packed lunch and drink as the course will be in the middle of the countryside so there will be no facilities or conveniences available.

Mr Woodham added: “We hope that after the free taster day attendees will take up the craft and even enter the annual Melplash Agricultural Society novice hedge laying competition.”

Dorset Style hedge laying was recognised by the National Hedgelaying Association in 2013.

There are many different styles of hedge laying across parts of the UK.

Each style has been developed over many years to cope with the climate of the area, different farming practices and the type of trees and shrubs that grow in the hedge.

The Dorset style hedge is laid on top of a bank. It is kept low to the bank, tightly woven with itself and bonds (thin sticks) are used to secure it internally and externally.

For further details and to book call the Society Office: 01308 423337 or email: office@melplashshow.co.uk.