Traditionally the end of season event has been at the same hedge involving both styles, but on this occasion the landowner want the Midland hedge to be completed in that style , while at the same time , the competition hedge at Patching still had around 200 yards left to do .
Therefore 2 teams were organised by Frank at different locations , which worked brilliantly ; 11 cutters at Patching completed another 65 yards , including the unfinished cant from the competition, which leaves around 140 yards still to complete on that hedge .The SoE cutters task was made much easier by Wendy's delicious rhubarb and custard cake for elevenses -.see photo
Over at Wepham the 4 experienced Midland style trainers of Alan Ashby, Paul Matthews, Philip Rowell and Gary Moore gave expert instruction to around a dozen cutters , who by all accounts did a tidy job of the Midland style hedge .
Both teams met at the George Inn at Burpham and had a great lunch , in great company. The meal concluded by the presentation of the Blake trophy to Frank by Phil. The Blake trophy is awarded to the person who has gone above and beyond in the furtherance of the Society over a long time - Frank is a worthy winner who has coped with an extremely difficult season in putting on a series of great cutting events.
The other presentation was of the Intermediate class trophy by Mike to Gwyn - well done Gwyn , for being consistent and persistent over the years.
That concludes the cutting events for the 2023/24 season, which has been a great one
Summer shows( May - September) now follow - if you would like to participate in the manning the shows trailer drop Wendy a line at [email protected]
The 2024/25 programme of events is being worked on and will be published in the next few months .
The 4oth Annual Hedge laying competition date is 22 February 2025, location to be decided.