Pentland Hills Regional Park

This is a two day training course providing the practical skills and confidence necessary to lay an overgrown hedge. The techniques and principles of hedge laying and hedge coppicing will be introduced to participants along with the wider considerations and knowledge of hedgerow conservation useful to and of interest to volunteers and staff involved in nature conservation.

The course is being facilitated by Peter Holmes of Rural Skills Training contractor and instructor in conservation and horticultural work for nearly 25 years with 18 years experience of running his own practical conservation contracting business

By the end of the course participants will:

· Have gained knowledge and experience of hedge laying.

· Understand the correct & safe methods of using hand-tools and working with others to lay a hedge

· Understand the importance of restoring and laying hedges and the principles of their subsequent management needs, including weed control, annual trimming and grazing pressure from rabbits and deer

· Have learnt new & developed existing practical skills and the confidence to continue using these skills

· Have a grounding in the history, functions, ecology and conservation of hedgerows

Participants will be required to bring the following:

Well fitted leather/gardening gloves- (although a standard size provided), Strong boots (preferably steel toe cap),

Work/old clothes, Warm and waterproof clothing, Packed lunch/snacks/drinks (including hot drinks), (Knee pads/mat could benefit those with knee complaints- also supplied)

Only 4 places left.

Booking is essential.

Payment can be made by cheque, purchase order, invoice or wold Pay. Please note that a £30 fee will be held back for administration charges should you cancel your place on the course. However, if the cancellation is taking place 2 weeks or less before the course the full amount will be charged.