The traditional skill of hedgelaying is much in evidence as part of ongoing work at Clacton's newest country park.

A stretch of about 150 metres of hedgerow along the boundary of Brook Country Park with the Little Clacton Bypass has undergone a transformation and is now almost complete.

Staff from Tendring District Council's (TDC) horticultural services team undertook a course from a specialist instructor and began the initiative at the site last year.

They have now returned to tackle the remaining section of the hedge which was originally planted more than 15 years ago when the bypass was built.

The Council runs the park on the outskirts of Clacton and a further 100 trees are to be planted in the coming weeks under the ongoing maintenance and improvement programme.

Peter Halliday, TDC's Deputy Leader, said that hedgerows are a unique feature in the modern landscape and a nature conservation resource.

"It is good to see the attractive hedgelaying scheme that has been carried out along the side of the bypass at the edge of the country park," he said.

"A number of planting and pond schemes have also been undertaken since the 14 hectare site was opened up to the public in June 2010 and the project is ongoing.

"We have involved the community, including schoolchildren, and Brook Park now provides an informal, quiet countryside area on the edge of the town and contributes to our residents' overall well-being."

Hedgelaying declined after the Second World War due to many factors such as the availability of labour, the introduction of machinery to cut hedges, wire fences and changes in agricultural production.

By the 1960's hedges were declining at an alarming rate and lack of maintenance led to them becoming tall with large gaps at the bottom.

Fortunately the skill has been revived and passed on to others and hedgerows are being restored across the country.

Trevor Mills, TDC's Horticultural and Transport Services Manager, said that staff were keen to be taught the art of hedgelaying and have put their new skills to good effect.

30/1/12