This week we have been planting a new hedge between the two parts of the newly divided field next to the Helipad (Fairlight Road Picnic Site) a length of nearly 200m. The species we have planted is a mixture of Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Field Maple, Hazel, Hornbeam and Pedunculate (English) Oak. The ten oaks in the mix will when mature provide standard trees along the hedge and at the ends will give connectivity to the existing hedgerows.

The plants or whips as they are called are in a double row, six to the metre with canes for support and spiral guards for protection against rabbit damage. There is also a fence either side to protect  the hedge from grazing stock whilst it gets established.

So far on Thursday and Friday we have kept dry but the forecast for tomorrow (Sunday) when we’ll be finishing off the job is not so promising.

Friday was also a sad day for us as we said goodbye to Estate Ranger, Chris Morns, who is leaving Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve on Tuesday and we wish him all the best for the future.