PEOPLE in the Tiverton area are being invited to take part in a course later this month to develop new practical skills and help conserve Devon's rural heritage.

A workshop in hedge steeping, also known as hedge laying, is being held at Dryhill Farm, Stoodleigh near Tiverton on March 22.

It is organised by the Devon Rural Skills Trust, a charity which aims to keep alive the traditional crafts and skills which have been practised in the county for centuries.

Course instructor Nick Dawe said: “You won't need to go the gym after a day's hedge laying. It's a great way to get fit, learn about our countryside's heritage and develop a new skill at the same time.

“This is a practical course, so attendees get the satisfaction of taking part in a constructive project from beginning to end.

It is immensely satisfying to know you are contributing to something that will be part of the landscape for hundreds of years - as well as taking home a practical skill at the end of the day.”

In addition to weekend courses which are open to everyone, the Devon Rural Skills Trust runs a training scheme which aims to help young people develop the expertise necessary to enable them to earn a living from the crafts taught by the Trust as well as preserving the fabric of the countryside.

The course starts at 9.30am and finishes at 4.30pm.

Anyone interested in booking a place or to find out more information about the Trust should contact Mick Godfrey on 01548 821156 or go to www.devonruralskillstrust.co.uk