The revival of a traditional craft which helps give the British countryside its unique appearance is strongly under way, as STEWART BONNEY discovered when he met some of its expert practitioners at the annual North East Hedgelaying Competition.

Peter Middleton is part of a growing band of Northumberland farmers who take their role as custodians of the countryside very seriously. STEWART BONNEY met him on his sheep farm near Longhorsley to learn about his passion for birds, and especially owls.

SUSIE WHITE meets Natasha and Alex McEwen, and learns how a multi-talented forebear provided the stimulus for their love of English florist tulips.