CUMBRIAN young farmers showed their green side when they tackled a hedgelaying challenge.

The young farmers battled the less-than-favourable weather conditions and planted hedges at Lane Farm for the Westmorland County Agricultural Society Stewardship Scheme.

A total of 423 metres of hedges were planted creating two new hedges. The planting was an environmental mix of traditional species, including quickthorn, blackthorn, hazel, dog rose and holly, to encourage biodiversity and increased pollinators in two separate areas.

Over the two days, 21 volunteers took part, including four young farmers club members. Led by Lisa Bennett, chairman of Westmorland County Agricultural Society, and David Martin, director of property, the volunteers included committee members, staff and young farmers. The hedgelaying challenge was part of the Westmorland Agricultural Society land management systems when they entered into a DEFRA mid-tier environmental stewardship scheme.

A spokesperson said there are many facets to the scheme, but it would strengthen the society’s existing approach to managing the showground and outlying land by increasing and improving the habitat and food for invertebrates, birds and other animals.

The two days were organised in conjunction with the National Hedgelaying Society.

A Cumbria Young Farmers Federation spokesperson said: “A big well done to Robbie Hutchinson and James Hoggarth from Grayrigg YFC and Tom Barker and Jack Sowerby from Eden Valley YFC for braving the awful weather at the weekend.