Richard Negus is a former soldier and horseman. He is now a professional hedgelayer, conservationist, writer and author of the acclaimed WORDS FROM THE HEDGE. His writing champions the people, work, wildlife and beauty of the countryside, and can be found in publications including The Critic, Scribehound, The Daily Telegraph, Sunday Express and Country Life.

Richard is recognised as one of the country's leading exponents and practitioners in rotational hedgerow management and rejuvenation. Fellow Countryside Writer, John Lewis-Stempel, describes him as "The hedgerow's one true champion".

Richard hosts a weekly podcast - Countryslide - with fellow countrymen Richard Prideaux and Callum McInerney-Riley, covering life and work in the British countryside. It's a blend of humorous storytelling and current affairs, and is possibly (maybe) the best rural podcast in the UK. www.countryslide.co.uk

Richard lives in rural Mid Suffolk with his wife Clare, son Charlie, and their gundogs Mabel and Blyth. 

Moderator Offaly County Council Biodiversity Officer: Ricky Whelan