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Hedgerow Heroes are coming to Weston Park
Archery Field in Weston Park is undergoing a transformation
Our team at Hedgerow Heroes will soon commence work, hedge laying and restoring 65 meters of park boundary in Weston Park, Bath. Thanks to Bath and Northeast Somerset Councils on going commitment to nature recovery. We are able to work closely with council’s park department to revamp the Archery Field hedge system.
Why Archery Field?
The hedgerows at Archery Field are at a stage in their life cycle where they would benefit from hedge-laying to restore their natural heritage. Current surveys sadly indicate that the hedges at Archery Field have lost the vigour and diversity that they once enjoyed. This in turn has reduced the opportunity for wildlife to flourish. Restoring a hedgerow is a natural stage in the lifecycle of a hedge and the council is grateful for the support of the CPRE Hedgerow Heroes project in helping to make this happen.
How do hedgerows support wildlife?
A healthy flourishing hedge provides a cosy home for a wide range of mammals, birds, and invertebrates. Hedges provide these animals with warmth and shelter, and act like corridors of safety by allowing them to hide from predation and the elements. Native hedgerows also produce a rich sources of food like nuts, berries, and nectar which support a huge range of species. Without flourishing hedgerows creatures like hedgehogs and field mice would be struggling for survival and we don’t want that to happen!
How do we restore the hedge at Archery Fields?
We will be using the traditional method of Hedge laying to restore the Archery Field hedgerows. Hedge laying it is a forgotten element of our countryside heritage, the skill has passed down through the generations for hundreds of years, we love that we can bring back to our parks and boundaries! The work will be undertaken this autumn and winter, as it is best to work on hedgerows whilst the undergrowth is dormant.
Led by a professional hedge- layer- Mike Reed, the Parks Department, CPRE volunteers and team will kick of the project on the 27th of October. The Parks Department Team will then continue the work in the New Year. We are proud to say the work will be undertaken using traditional hand tools!
Hedge Laying Training Day
Want to get involved? We will start our work on October the 27th with hedge laying training day where you can learn how to restore a hedgerow through a practical, hands-on course. We will learn the correct use of billhook, axe and saw, and how to pleach a hedge!
This is a great opportunity for any active person who is keen to learn a new skill whilst helping wildlife and their community. Everyone is welcome, to book a free training place please follow the link below.
Want to know more?
Work will then continue in the Archery field every Friday throughout the Autumn and Winter months. If you want to learn more about hedge laying and expert hedge layer Mike Reed check out the below video.
