CPRE Launches Winter Series of Online Events to Champion Hedgerow Restoration
As the days grow shorter, CPRE – the Campaign to Protect Rural England – is delighted to announce a new winter programme of online events designed to inform and inspire.
These sessions will help people stay connected with nature during the colder months while deepening their understanding of how we can protect and enhance our countryside together.
Why Hedgerows Matter
Hedgerows are the unsung heroes of the countryside. They provide vital habitats for wildlife, support biodiversity, store carbon and help prevent soil erosion. Yet, England has lost over half its hedgerows since the Second World War. Restoring and maintaining healthy hedgerows is essential for tackling climate change and safeguarding nature for future generations. Through CPRE’s Hedgerow Heroes Phase 5, we’re calling on everyone to play their part in bringing back England’s lost hedgerows.
Winter Programme Highlights
CPRE Hampshire alongside local branches, will host a variety of online talks covering fascinating topics such as biodiversity, wildlife habitats and the benefits of hedgerows for both people and the planet.
All of the talks take place between 7-8.30pm on Zoom.
Here are the four featured online talks:
Tuesday 16th December 2025: Can hedgerows save the world?
A talk by Megan Gimber, hedgerow expert from the People’s Trust for Endangered Species
Hedgerows are far more than boundaries for livestock – they’re vital allies in the fight against climate change. In this thought-provoking talk, Megan Gimber will explore the incredible role hedgerows play in supporting biodiversity, sustainable farming, and environmental resilience.
You’ll discover:
- What makes a truly healthy hedge
- Management practices that unlock their full potential
- How current policies measure up
- Practical ways to build climate resilience into new hedgerows
Join us to learn why restoring and protecting hedgerows is one of the most powerful steps we can take for nature and the planet.
Reserve your free ticket for Megan’s talk
Wednesday 21st January 2026: Restoring hedgerows, reviving landscapes – a local success story
A talk by Jane Reeve, the Hedgerow Heroes project lead for CPRE Sussex
Hear from Jane Reeve as she shares her hands-on experience revitalising hedgerows across the Manhood Peninsula near Chichester. From surveying and identifying issues to delivering new planting and habitat improvements, Jane’s work shows how practical local action can deliver big wins for wildlife, connectivity and countryside character.
Reserve your free ticket for Jane’s talk
Wednesday 4th February 2026: Hedgerow management for healthy hedges
A talk by Nigel Adams, renowned hedgelayer
What does it take to keep a hedge healthy for generations? In this comprehensive talk, Nigel Adams will share his expertise on every stage of hedgerow care – from planting and hedge laying to trimming and assessing hedge condition.
Nigel brings decades of experience, having worked with the Nature Conservancy Council, National Trust, English Nature and the National Hedgelaying Society. Today, he runs his own countryside management business in Oxfordshire, advising landowners and conservation groups nationwide. A renowned hedgelayer and competition winner, Nigel also sits on Hedgelink, the national steering group for hedgerow policy.
Beyond his professional achievements, Nigel is passionate about traditional skills – teaching scything in summer and even traveling to Transylvania to scythe alongside local farmers. With over 100 sheep and a lifetime of hands-on experience, Nigel’s insights promise to be both practical and inspiring.
Join us to learn how thoughtful management can help hedgerows thrive and support biodiversity for years to come.
Reserve your free ticket for Nigel’s talk
Tuesday 17th March 2026: Hedgelife
A talk by Ian Metson, founder of Hedgelife.
Tickets and more information coming soon.