Barnsley Council celebrates 10 years of hedge laying volunteer training

We are celebrating a decade of our successful hedge laying volunteer training programme, which has grown from just a handful of participants to one of the most sought-after courses of its kind in the region. 

The programme, which began in 2016, offers residents the chance to learn and develop skills in the traditional craft of hedge laying, a vital practice for habitat creation, biodiversity improvement, and countryside management. What began with a small number of participants has now become consistently fully booked. 

Since 2021 alone the council has welcomed 270 volunteers, and it’s estimated that over 400 people have taken part since the programme began. All hedge laying work takes place on council owned land, directly contributing to improved wildlife corridors, healthier habitats, and the long-term stewardship of Barnsley’s natural environment. 

Barnsley is believed to be one of only a handful of local authorities in the UK offering hedge laying volunteer training of this kind.  

The programme is led by Jasper Pratchek, a Gold Accredited hedge layer and champion practitioner recognised by the National Hedge Laying Society. Jasper’s expertise ensures volunteers receive high-quality, hands-on training across both beginner and improver levels. 

Jasper Pratchek, Programme Lead, said: 

“It’s great to see the council take on this project, and I hope other councils across the county are encouraged to undertake similar initiatives.” 

Councillor James Higginbottom, Cabinet spokesperson for Environment and Highways, added:  

“This programme is a real Barnsley success story. Over the past ten years, hundreds of volunteers have helped enhance and protect our natural environment while learning a valuable heritage craft.  

“We’re proud to be one of the few councils offering a scheme like this, and we’re grateful to everyone who has taken part and contributed to making Barnsley greener and more biodiverse.”