THIRTY expert hedge-layers will be competing in this weekend’s Hampshire Hedge laying Championships.

The annual event, held on Sunday in Medstead, is a competition to find the best hedge layer in each class in the South of England and in the Midlands, plus the overall champion who lays the best length of hedge on the day.

Outdoor power equipment company STIHL is supporting the event and providing an MS 170 chainsaw for the winning hedge layer.

Organiser Chris Sparkes says the event was a real success last year and they expect this year to be even more popular.

“The Hampshire Hedge laying Championships is an exciting event for the whole family,” he explained.

“As well as the various hedge-laying competitions on the day there will be crafts and trade stands to keep visitors busy. We are thankful to STIHL for their chainsaw contribution and to Simon Robinson, from Hattingley Valley Sparkling, for allowing us to lay hedges on his land, and sponsoring the event.”

The event is supporting the Hampshire Air Ambulance and MOVE, a charity working with severely disabled children and adults to increase their mobility and independence.

The event is at Hattingley Barn on Hattingley Road in Medstead, from 9am to 5pm. Entry is £2 for adults, free for children.