THE importance of hedges for some of the region?s best loved birds is the focus of this year?s Devon Hedge Week, which runs from October 21. The week aims to bring Devon?s magnificent network of hedges into the spotlight and provide everyone with an opportunity to enjoy and learn about one of the county?s finest landscape features. The events will promote the importance of hedges, and show why hedges are so important for birds, what types of hedge are best, and how to look after them. This year Devon Hedge Week coincides with schools? half term holidays which will enable more families to enjoy the special events. In West Devon, there will be a food safari at Locks Park Farm in Hatherleigh this weekend which includes farm walks, hedgerow craft demonstrations, a BBQ and cream teas. The event, between 10.30am and 4.30pm, is free ? for details, telephone 01837 810416. There will be a hedge laying course at Roadford Lake on Sunday, between 9am and 3.30pm. The course will be run by head ranger Ben Smeeth and costs £10. To book, call 01566 771930.