Fencing needs to be sturdy so that it can withstand the elements and, perhaps even vandalism. Fencing can often deter thieves as well as providing you with privacy. Wooden fencing is ideal for both purposes. It is also pleasant to look at, which is where it triumphs over wire fencing. However, chicken wire can be painted and sculpted – it isn’t limited to being used for fences.

What did we do before there were fences?

Before fences, there were hedges separating fields and gardens. Wire has been around for thousands of years, although not the barbed variety which was first made in the USA. Barbed wire fences can prevent livestock stampeding. The large cattle could easily demolish a wooden fence, and the American West was not known for its hedges – rather, it was a sandy desert with large cacti being the indigenous plants.

Now we don’t tend to …