News from the HDC parks and countryside team: “Farm users please be aware that a number of the hedges on the Farm will be flailed starting tomorrow and be mindful when walking your dogs and children around the Farm.
“The maintenance of the hedges is vital for ensuring the longevity of the hedges themselves as well as providing thick cover for nesting birds next spring. You will notice that not all of the hedges are cut each year, and they are in fact cut on a three year rotation. This is to allow the birds and small mammals to feed on the bounty of berries and fruit from species such as Hawthorn, Blackthorn and Crab Apple all of which are common around the Farm.
“The more observant visitors may also notice that not all three sides of the hedges will be cut. This leaves one side of the hedge to keep its fruit later into the winter as well as protect the rare Brown Hairstreak butterfly which lays its eggs on the tips of the Blackthorn twigs.
“If you have any questions about the Farm or its management then please do email us at parks@horsham.gov.uk”
Friends of Chesworth Farm 
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