FRIENDS of the Lake District’s 36th hedge-laying competition at Sunny Bank Farm, Grayrigg, saw 15 competitors lay 130 metres of hedge in the local Lancashire and Westmorland style.

Jack Ellerby, from the Friends, said: “We have some of the best hedge-layers here in south Cumbria, and you’ll see more hedge-laying in our area than anywhere else.

“A healthy, well-managed hedgerow helps manage livestock on the farm, provides valuable habitat for loads of wildlife and is an essential feature in our landscape.”

Championship: 1 Peter Gibson, Kendal; 2 Andrew Kirkwood, Endmoor; 3 Keith Allen, Staveley. Open, best overall hedge: 1 Jack Carradice, Selside; 2 John Gibson, Kendal; 3 Craig Proctor, Selside. Novice: 1 Thomas Kendal, Grayrigg; 2 Karl Bell, Lancaster; 3 Jon Oliver, Lancaster.