Hedgelayer, journalist and champion of the GWCT, Richard Negus’ groundbreaking book Words from the Hedge posits the humble hedgerow as the ultimate example of man-made nature and the unsung hero of nature recovery. Created and shaped by the human hand over centuries, when managed correctly, hedges can produce an incredible diversity of plant and animal life and the UK’s unique half a million miles of hedgerows represent a countrywide network of wildlife corridors. This scale and the fact that they occupy the margins, gives them the potential to deliver nature recovery alongside food production across the 72% of the country that is farmed.
Fascinating, forthright and funny, Richard’s advocates a modern approach to hedge management that swaps the neckerchief and billhook for the chainsaw and flail. Traditional hedgelaying has its place, but without a more practical economical approach, properly funded by agri-environment schemes and fitting in with modern farming practice, it will be impossible to take on the mammoth task of rejuvenating Britain’s’ diminished hedgerows.
If you are interested in the history of hedges, the wildlife they support and the art of hedgelaying their there is plenty to enjoy, but this book is much more than a homage to an ancient and much-loved feature of the British countryside. It is an inspiring call to arms to better manage our hedges and by so doing restore nature on a national scale.
Words from the Hedge by Richard Negus – Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust
Richard will be on the GWCT stand at the Game Fair (25-27 July) and available to sign copies. He will also be giving a talk about his new book and all things hedgerow related at the Exeter Comedy Festival on 7th June Exeter Corn Exchange Exeter Comedy Festival - Richard Negus: Talking Hedges