Hedgelaying Competition Returns To The Isle Of Wight

The Isle of Wight Hedgerow Group has confirmed its annual hedgelaying competition will return in 2026 after a two-year break.

The 29th Annual Hedgelaying Competition will take place on Saturday 28 February 2026, from 10am to 4pm, at Atherfield Farm.

The event is being hosted with the kind permission of landowners Mrs Annie Henton and Mr and Mrs R Chapman.

This year’s competition will be held at a new location, and organisers are encouraging people to wrap up warm, pull on their wellies and come along.

Entry, parking and spectating are all free.

Visitors can enjoy the popular tea tent serving cake, hot food and drinks, as well as a display of traditional billhooks and tools by Ralph Griffin.

There will also be static engines and vehicles on show from the Vectis Vintage Tractors and Engines Club.

Organiser Tony Ridd of Landscape Therapy said he was delighted the event was returning.

“The 2023 competition was one of the biggest and best we’ve ever held,” he said.

“This is an exciting new venue with fantastic views – and of course a really nice hedge.”

Competitors are being encouraged to submit their entries as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Everyone is welcome to attend.