Episode 2
Our Neolithic ancestors figured out how to bend trees to their will. Coppicing is still a 21st-century skill. Read by Tim Keys.
Written by Hugh Barker. Read by Tim Key.
Hugh Barker, a hedge enthusiast, has journeyed across Britain to explore its remarkable variety of hedgerows.
Our Neolithic ancestors figured out how to bend trees to their will and developed the art of coppicing. A skill that is renewing itself in 21st century competitions.
Over the course of his travels he discovers how hedges are amongst our most ancient monuments, meets hedgelaying champions and topiary fanatics, and sees the lengths to which some people will go to annoy the neighbours. Along the way he tells how a connection between paradise and the garden hedge grew up, why the British Army planted a barrier hedge hundreds of miles long in India, and how the notorious enclosures during the Industrial Revolution turned the country upside-down.
Abridged and Produced by Jill Waters
A Waters Company production for BBC Radio 4.
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Tue 22 May 201209:45BBC Radio 4 FM- Wed 23 May 201200:30BBC Radio 4
- Tue 28 Mar 201714:45BBC Radio 4 Extra
- Wed 29 Mar 201702:45BBC Radio 4 Extra
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