I tend to prefer the idea of using good manual tools to throwing electricity into the mix. With an electric tool you have to figure around with power leads or batteries and you are draining power. However, having finally got round to using the electric hedge trimmer my parents gave me a while back, I have to admit that it was a lot quicker and easier than a pair of shears. Because the tool does most of the work it also meant that I was able to focus more on where I was cutting and get a tidy finish (with just a few snips from a pair of manual secaturs to finish the job).

The top of the hedge still needs trimming when Jane is ready to try weaving with the long branches we have allowed to reach up during the year but, when that time comes, I think I might rely on some externally powered help again.