A WILDLIFE conservation initiative in Lydford is holding two hedge steeping demonstrations this Saturday (March 8).

Skilled Dartmoor craftsman Dave Hannaford will demonstrate the traditional practice during the free event at Bearwalls Farm, Lydford.

Hedgebank steeping dates back to a time when farm workers spent most of the winter months managing hedgerows and hedgebanks.

The demonstrations are part of the Nature for Real initiative, which is run by Dartmoor National Park Authority?s three year Action for Wildlife project.

Sarah Mellor, of Action for Wildlife, said: ?Keeping hedgebanks in good condition is essential to benefit the rich diversity of wildlife which inhabits them and to ensure the continued existence of ?green corridors? through the countryside.

?Well cared for, traditional boundaries such as hedgebanks provide a network of routes for wildlife every bit as busy as our road networks and provide food and shelter at the same time.?

Sarah will talk about the importance of hedgerows for Dartmoor wildlife at the event, which is open to everyone and costs nothing.

The morning session runs from 9.20am to 12.10pm, and the afternoon session from 1pm to 3.40pm.

There is no need to book, and the event is suitable for all ages as long as children are accompanied by an adult. Those attending are advised to wear warm, waterproof clothes, as the site is quite exposed.

Bearwalls Farm has been made available by permission of the Ministry of Defence and farmer Colin Friend.

Parking is available at Willsworthy Camp, located off the A386 Okehampton to Tavistock road, opposite Higher Beardon, and transport from Willsworthy to Bearwalls Farm will be provided by the MoD.

Action for Wildlife was launched in September 2001 with the aim of maintaining and enhancing the wildlife resource of Dartmoor by helping people who live and work there to carry out practical action on the ground.

A dormouse and hedgerow survey was recently carried out by volunteers in Lydford as part of Nature for Real, and it is hoped the information gathered will help improve the dormouse?s habitat in the area.

Anyone wishing to find out more about this Saturday?s demonstrations is welcome to contact Sarah Mellor on 01626 831072.