Malcolm Dowling

Malcolm Dowling, our hedge-layer and trainer, started laying hedges when he retired at the age of 60, and is now a champion hedge layer of 79.

This photograph was taken in November 2017 when Malcolm was laying one of the Metford Road Community Orchard's two hedgerows.

Malcolm, who trades under the name "Grandad", also builds dry stone walls - another ancient countryside skill.

Malcolm's 19 year old grandson, Ollie, provided invaluable assistance. Ollie has been helping Malcolm lay hedges since he was 8 years old, and is now a competent and experienced hedge-layer.