Hedgelaying - The Isle of Wight Style
This weekend the Isle of Wight Hedgelaying Competition takes place at Kings Manor, Afton. The laying of hedges in England to form a stock proof barrier has been practiced for hundreds of years and over the centuries each region has developed their own variation following the native hedge varieties and terrain.
The laying of a hedge not only forms a livestock-proof barrier but aids the rejuvenation of existing hedgerows, encouraging them to put on new growth and help improve their overall structure and strength. As a bi-product wildlife diversity is increased and the landscape improved.
The Isle of Wight style looks untidy but is an effective stockproof barrier and is extremely quick and easy to lay successfully. Pleachers (main growths) are simply laid one on top of the other, usually in alternating directions, with little of the brash (side shoots) removed. These are then pegged down with crooked hazel stakes (similar to thatching spars).
Typical features are
- Informal and very wide hedgerow
- No binding, stakes at irregular intervals on alternate sides of the hedge
- Crooked hazel stakes made from rejected wands
More information on Isle of Wight hedgelaying and the annual hedgelaying competition are available from the Isle of Wight Hedgerow group – www.iwhg.org
Anna Pocock's Pancake Recipe
Tuesday 16th February is Shrove Tuesday, the last day before Lent and more commonly known as Pancake Day. I'm a huge fan of pancakes doused liberally with lemon juice and sugar. But if you fancy something a little more elaborate, do try this delectable variation. Don't foget to let the batter sit before frying the pancakes.
more..
Corf House, Shalfleet - February Property of the Month
Corf House is a light and sunny property set in some 4 acres of grounds.
more..
Burns Night Supper
Monday the 25th if is Burns Night where Scots around the world celebrate the life and works of their national Bard, Robert Burns.
more..
The Islands Property Market - The Outlook for 2010 By Charles Spence, Director & Head of Sales at Christopher Scott Ltd
Following a cautious start in 2009, the Islands property market generally faired better than most would have predicted at the start of the year with a good degree of activity, particularly later in the year across most sectors of the market.
more..