This book has had quite a story in itself. It was first released in hardback last year by Unbound, an independent publisher which promptly closed down. Richard then tirelessly promoted the book himself, speaking at numerous events and festivals throughout East Anglia over the past six months, spreading the word about hedge-laying and wildlife. Now his book's out in paperback with a new publisher.

Richard Negus has worked for 30 years in all weathers, managing, maintaining and laying hedges.

It is not a comfortable job. Richard’s arms are scratched and scarred, and his skin snagged by briar, thorn and bramble. But the work also allows him to stand quietly and watch wildlife around him - the birds, mice and voles. And, despite what we read in the press and hear from campaign groups, it is not all bad news for English nature, he says.

In this book and in the many talks he gives on the subject at events, country shows and festivals, he is eager to share a positive story about the countryside, shattering some of the myths we've been told, while also urging us to take better care of the land, flora and fauna.

Hedges are as old as civilisation and as vital to our landscape as chalk streams, hay meadows or oak trees but they are often overlooked, taken for granted until they are no longer there. They are essential for wildlife but need management to survive.

Richard presents a powerful picture of the countrypeople he meets, the complexities of modern farming and land ownership, and the challenges faced by conservationists. He shares his knowledge and experience with honesty and humour, and he packs a wealth of information in this beautifully packaged book.

You can find out more about Richard in my article in 'Suffolk' magazine, and I will be talking to him at the Felixstowe Book Festival in June. Tickets on sale from 1 April.