i don't mind him being able to look in as i'm sure we aren't that
interesting (!) and he seems like a nice old guy but unfortunately a
low hedge down the side means any passers by can see in to our garden
(as they're passing his) as we're raised up. there is definitely
history with previous owners as gardeners cut down a tree of ours as a
condition of sale.

all in all from the opinions you have given we'll gently suggest that
that the hedge on the side (towards the front where people can see) can
be higher and the hedge towards the rear (where only he can see) can be
lower ! a grand solution hopefully

thanks