"David Hill" wrote
in message ...
I'd also forget conifers, what about laurel, its back in
favour, fast,
evergreen and can be cut back to 2 or 3 ft if you decide
you don't like your
8ft hedge and will not suffer in any way.

I endorse that.
Laurel is eminently controllable, even after a period of
neglect. As a bonus, it offers excellent shelter for birds.

Also golden or silver privet can give a good hedge as can
other of the large
leafed members of the family.

Franz