3rd November 2025

This is the hedgerow between the church and Crixhall Court. It embodies pretty much everything that's right in a good hedge. It has a wide margin between the base of the hedge and the cultivated field. The field itself has been sown with a cover crop which will provide for wildlife during the winter and early spring, before cultivation resumes. The hedge was planted perhaps only 20 years ago with a mix of native species. This includes hazel, spindle, hawthorn, wayfaring tree, guelder rose, wild privet, purging buckthorn, dog rose and others. Today there were Redwings feasting on the berries. The hedge was laid about 11 years ago and consequently it is now quite thick providing a refuge and safe nesting space. Every few metres, a tree has been left to grow tall. There are oak, ash and walnut trees. They will provide perches for raptors amongst many other benefits. Yellowhammers are amongst the many bird species that breed here. The hedge is trimmed annually but after the berries have gone and before nesting starts. The hedge provides a wildlife corridor to other habitats on the Goodnestone estate. This is excellent nature-friendly farming management. It doesn't just benefit wildlife, it's a two-way gift.

The footpath between Crixhall Court and the church

This, by the way, is the current view north from the church towards Great Pedding.

The footpath from the church to Great Pedding