THIS year’s Exmoor Hedge Competition has been launched by the national park authority.

The annual competition is aimed at the landowners, managers and contractors who carry out high quality hedge-laying work for the benefit of Exmoor’s farming, wildlife and landscape.

Hedges must be within Exmoor national park and have been laid during the winter of 2015-16.

There are two classes – open and novice – and the winner of each will receive £200 with £100 going to the runners-up and £50 for third place.

The judges include members of the Devon and Somerset Hedge Groups, who are experienced West Country hedge-layers themselves. The previous year’s open class winner is also invited to join the judging panel.

The closing date for entries is June 6. Entry forms should be submitted with at least one photo of the completed hedge.