Somerset scything expert Andi Rickard has once again proven her prowess in the ancient craft - dominating the recent Wandlebury Scything Festival near Cambridge.

Rickard emerged victorious, securing the Women’s Trophy, the Quality Cup, and the overall championship.

The event marked a triumphant return after a COVID-19 hiatus, and Rickard’s performance was nothing short of spectacular.

Andi began scything in 2009 and has been teaching the technique since 2012.

From 2019 to 2022, she was the twelve-time ladies’ champion, cementing her status as one of the top competitors in the field.

She represented Great  Britain at the European Scythe Championships in Austria and finished a creditable 24th place - and jokes: “Not too shabby considering that most of the competitors were half my age!”

Scything, a method of cutting grass with a scythe rather than modern machinery, has been practised in its current form for around 8,000 years, dating back to Roman times. The technique is especially common in temperate regions, including parts of Europe, Australia, and the Americas.

Scything played a critical role in agriculture, allowing farmers to feed their livestock during winter by making hay, which also led to the creation of natural wildflower meadows. Today, the technique is enjoying a resurgence, with many people appreciating its environmental benefits and therapeutic value.

In the UK, scything competitions are held in various regions, including a national competition in Somerset, a northern festival, an eastern counties festival, and a biennial Scottish festival. Rickard has been competing in the Somerset scything festival since 2010 and plans to participate again next year.

Andi, who lives in Wellington, emphasises the mindful and therapeutic aspects of scything, noting its benefits for individuals with mental and physical health challenges, such as ADHD and PTSD. “Scything is becoming more than just an agricultural tool; it’s a very mindful activity. It’s environmentally and wildlife-friendly,” she explained.

“It’s a tool anyone can use, and it helps people centre themselves and clears their minds.”

Rickard’s dedication to scything extends beyond competitions and teaching. She also offers scything services to the public, providing a natural, non-invasive method of grass cutting. In Wellington, Transition Town Wellington has adopted scything for community gardening sessions and maintenance of local areas like Foxes Field, making scything a familiar sight around town.

As a teaching member of the Scythe Association of Britain and Ireland, Rickard continues to promote the practice and educate others about its benefits. For those interested in learning more about scything or seeking her services, additional information can be found at Scythe Association of Britain and Ireland and Somerset Scythe School.

Andi Rickard’s success at the Wandlebury Scything Festival highlights her exceptional skill and dedication to preserving and promoting the ancient craft of scything. Her journey from a novice to a champion and teacher is a testament to the enduring appeal and relevance of traditional methods in today’s world.