Professional and amateur hedge layers from across the north of England will once again be testing their skills as they come together at Friends of the Lake District’s Annual Hedge-laying Competition on Saturday January 20.

THE best hedge layers in the north west will be testing their skills at the Friends of the Lake District's annual competition.

Professional and amateur competitors will take part, laying in the Westmorland and Lancashire style.

The event is part of the Westmorland and Lancashire Grand Prix series of events this year.

Friends of the Lake District organiser Ruth Kirk said: "The rural skill of hedge-laying is very much alive and well and this event brings together some of the most skilled and experienced hedge-layers, with novices who are looking to learn and improve their technique.

"A well-laid hedge regenerates new growth providing a wonderful haven for wildlife, including declining birds as well as making the field stock proof for the farmer."

The competition runs from 9am to 3.30pm at Gateside Farm, near Burneside.