The weather was still hot after a very dry late summer.
The hedge looked interesting, some big gaps, some big stems, but not much in the way of brambles or weeds.
14 of us drew lots from Bob's Gazunder and we set off. Only after starting it was announced that we only had 4 hours, which seemed a bit tight for 10yards.
I only had a handful of stems, all bit it pretty thick ones, but with a sharp axe I had a pretty easy day, but most people not so lucky and were struggling. I even saw Gary and Bob sweating which is unheard of, mind you Gary had a massive tree which he heroically tackled with an axe. Driving the stakes into concrete like ground was a nice touch to finish off the day.
It was good to see so many people watching, mostly locals, so hopefully they will revisit to see the regrowth.
After the 4hours there were only about 4 finishers, but our judge (Paul Matthews) was very good and allowed some fettling time, so everyone finished their section.
We finished the day at Arlington village hall and some very welcome home cooked food and drinks.
Clive Giligan was 3rd, Mike Bentley 2nd and Gary won.
Thanks as always to Laughton and District Agricultural Society, along with the Judge, steward, the landowner, our sponsors, and of course Shauna for organising us
Pictures on line as always on flickr, but beware there are some you can't "un-see"
https://www.flickr.com/groups/sehls/pool/
Here are the Prize winners, our Judge and Gary's mega axe pleach