WineGB’s 2026 Pruning Competition ‘Battle of the Secateurs’ for teams and individuals.

This year’s WineGB Pruning Competition is taking place on Friday 6 March 2026 at Denbies Wine Estate, Bradley Lane, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6AA

Developed to encourage high standards in the vineyard and celebrate the art of pruning, this competition allows both teams and individuals to show off their skills and battle it out to win the coveted title of Vine Pruner of the Year.

You can enter as a team (of 3 people) and/or an individual. Each team or individual will prune a minimum of five vines (pruner, cane puller, trimmer and tie).

Entry fees £45 for a team of 3 or £15 for the individual event and Observer lunch tickets £5, Non-member fees £75/team, £25/individual

Cash prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place finishes in both competitions.

The Event

The competition is for team and individuals and for WineGB members and non-members.

Judging

The judges will look for quality of work, cane selection and timing. Competitors must abide by the competition rules, and the judges decisions in all cases are final.

Safety

Competitors acknowledge that hazards may exist at the site. Competitors must provide their own safety equipment and assume responsibility for their own safety.

Refreshments

Hot drinks will be available upon arrival. Lunch is provided for ticket holders. Observers may book a lunch ticket, using the entry form.

Awards

Prizes will be awarded immediately after the judging has been completed while the contestants are enjoying refreshments.

How to Enter

The team event will cost £45 (£75 for non-member vineyards). Individual entries cost £15 per person (£25 pp for non-members). All fees are VAT inclusive and must be paid prior to the competition.

Note: Dogs are welcome, if kept on a lead.

Sponsors of the Event:

We are very grateful to the support and sponsorship of the event by the following:

Entries Close on Friday 27th February 2026.

Terms & Conditions can be found in the entry form via the button below.

2025 Winners

Team Event : 1st Davenport Vineyards, 2nd Gusbourne A, 3rd Vinescapes.

Individual Event: 1st Dragos Nitu – Gusbourne, 2nd Daniel Bojun – Vineworks, 3rd Tom Bailey – Wiston Estate