Isle of Wight Hedgelaying Competition showcases local craftsmanship and talent

Mainland visitors dominated the scoreboard as the 29th Annual Isle of Wight Hedgelaying Competition returned to the West Wight on Saturday, 28 February 2026.

Following a two-year hiatus, the event drew over 200 spectators and 20 competitors to Atherfield Farm for a day of high-standard craftsmanship under clear, sunny skies

The Open Class
The Open class saw a clinical performance from Sussex-based layer Graham West, who successfully defended his reputation as the man to beat.

West posted a commanding score of 82 points to secure the top spot, beating his previous score and narrowly edging out local favourite Tom Murphy, who finished on 79.

Kingsley Hollis completed the podium with a solid 72 points. In addition to his class win, West’s technical precision earned him the Peter Tunks £20 note award for the best stakes and binding.

Richard Grogan presenting Graham West with the Denis Russell Cup in the Open Class © Pamela Parker

The Novice Class
It was a similarly strong day for the visitors in the Novice class. Clive Bucknole, travelling from Eastleigh, delivered a double-victory performance.

Bucknole not only topped the Novice leaderboard with 72 points – outperforming second-placed Jon Jewitt (69) and third-placed Gwyn Alford (63) – but also claimed the prestigious award for the best hedge laid with hand tools.

His ability to maintain traditional standards, working without a chainsaw, was a highlight of the technical judging.

Clive Bucknole from Easleigh was presented the prize for the Best Laid Hedge by Matthew Chatfield © Pamela Parker

The Team class
The Team class provided the afternoon’s closest contest. The duo “Bound & Laid,” consisting of Alison Wright and James Cook, took the title with 71 points.

The battle for the remaining spots was fierce, resulting in “Snip & Tuck” with 69 points beating “Pleachy Binders” (Ben Snow, Verity Foster, and Cameron Gould), into second place by only two points. The “Dog’s Billhooks” followed closely in fourth with 66.

Alison Wright and James Cook - Team “Bound & Laid” were presented a prize by Matthew Chatfield — Alison Wright and James Cook – Team “Bound & Laid” were presented a prize by Matthew Chatfield © Pamela Parker

Island pride
Despite the mainland sweep of the primary trophies, Island pride was maintained by Tom Murphy, who was once again awarded the Landscape Therapy Best Isle of Wight Competitor award for his consistent work in the Open class.

The success of the 2026 event at Atherfield Farm, hosted by Mrs Annie Henton and Mr and Mrs R Chapman, underscores the enduring appeal of the craft. The spectators not only enjoyed the competition, but also other attractions such as Ralph Griffin’s display of billhooks and tools, and the popular running display of static engines and vehicles from Vectis Vintage Tractors and Engines Club.

The Isle of Wight Hedgerow Group extended their thanks to lead sponsors Landscape Therapy, Isle of Wight National Landscape, Pinkeye Graphics Ltd, and Wightlink, whose support ensured the competition’s smooth return to the agricultural calendar.

The 30th Annual Isle of Wight Hedgelaying Competition was announced for 27th February 2027, at the same location.

Competition results
Open Class (The Denis Russell Cup)