Hedge Laying at Bishop Middleham

A Heartfelt Thank You for Our Newly Laid Hedge

If you’ve walked past through the recreation ground recently, you may have noticed a beautiful stretch of freshly laid hedge taking shape. This lovely bit of countryside craftsmanship is thanks to the hard work and generosity of Dawn and Stuart Procter, who have given up their time to help care for one of our village’s natural boundaries.

A Traditional Skill Bringing New Life

Hedgelaying is a real labour of love. It’s a traditional skill that keeps hedges healthy, encourages new growth from the base, and creates a thick, living barrier that supports birds, insects, and small mammals. The photos show just how much care goes into the process—cutting, bending, weaving, and staking each stem so the hedge can grow back stronger than before.

Just the Beginning

This winter’s work is only a small part of a much bigger plan. Next year, the hedgelaying will continue along the back of the football field, gradually restoring the whole stretch in a way that’s sensitive to wildlife and manageable for volunteers.

Pressing Pause for Nature

With nesting season now beginning, all work has stopped to give our hedgerow birds the peace and protection they need. Once the season has passed, the next phase will pick up again—slowly, carefully, and with the same dedication Dawn and Stuart have already shown.

A group of photographs showing the work carried out on the hedges at the recreation ground in Bishop Middleham, before and after. Also showing how the work was carried out.

Hedge Laying at Bishop Middleham

Just the Beginning

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