Mainland Competitors Dominate Isle Of Wight Hedgelaying Competition

(c) Pamela Parker

Mainland competitors claimed the top honours as the 29th Annual Isle of Wight Hedgelaying Competition returned to Atherfield Farm in the West Wight on Saturday (28 February).

More than 200 spectators and 20 competitors attended the popular event, organised by the Isle of Wight Hedgerow Group, which made its comeback after a two-year break.

In the Open Class, Sussex hedge layer Graham West took first place with 82 points, narrowly ahead of local competitor Tom Murphy on 79.

Kingsley Hollis finished third with 72 points. West also collected the Peter Tunks £20 Note Award for best stakes and binding.

The Novice Class was won by Clive Bucknole from Eastleigh, who scored 72 points to finish ahead of Jon Jewitt and Gwyn Alford. Bucknole also received the award for the best hedge laid using hand tools.

(c) Pamela Parker

In the Team Class, Alison Wright and James Cook, competing as “Bound & Laid”, secured victory with 71 points.

“Snip & Tuck” placed second on 69, followed by “Pleachy Binders” on 67.

Despite strong competition from across the Solent, Island pride was upheld by Tom Murphy, who was named Best Isle of Wight Competitor.

Organisers thanked hosts at Atherfield Farm, along with sponsors including Landscape Therapy and Wightlink, for supporting the event’s return.

The 30th Annual Isle of Wight Hedgelaying Competition is set to take place at the same venue on 27 February 2027.