A MARY Tavy farmer has scooped second prize in the Devon Hedges Competition.

Kevin Hilborn, from Mary Tavy, won the second prize in the best newly restored Devon Hedgebank category. The competition, open to all farmers, landowners and contractors throughout the county, was organised by the Devon Hedge Group.

Barry Green, the hedge promotion officer for the Devon Hedge Group, said: 'The biggest threat to hedges today is not through removal, but through neglect.'

Devon's hedges serve as records of how land use has evolved and changed throughout history. The skills of farmers and hedge layers are essential to restore and maintain these landscape features, which contain and support many species of wildlife.

'The Devon Hedge Competition is a chance to show how these skills are still alive and well and practised throughout Devon. It is also a chance to compare and promote the art of good hedge management across the county,' said Mr Green.