BEAUTIFUL walks and the sound of bells and birdsong are on offer in two Dartmoor villages during the next few weeks.

The ?listening walks? have been organised by Aune Head Arts as part of its Dartmoor Changes project, which celebrates change ringing and method ringing in 33 communities across the moor.

The first walk takes place at Belstone on May 29 at 10.30am. The hour-long route will include lanes, rough tracks and a walk onto the open moor below Belstone Tor.

Andy Stevens, bell ringer, musician and birdsong specialist, said: ?The walk in and around Belstone whilst the bells of St Mary?s are being run will be especially rewarding ? the wind should push the sound of the bells toward the open moor, so that walkers can hear the ringing whilst walking across the magnificent landscape between the River Taw and East Ockment River.?

And on June 19, another very different, hour-long walk will leave Gidleigh at 10.15am. The route follows ancient footpaths and green lanes.

Andy said: ?As the walkers head away from Gidleigh, the sound from the bells of Holy Trinity will be behind them. However, soon they will hear sounds from a different set of bells coming from in front of them ? those of St Mary the Virgin in Throwleigh.?

During the two walks, Andy will give a talk about the tradition of bell ringing in England and the different variations practised in Devon. Walkers will also have an opportunity to talk to the bellringers ? and anyone over the age of 12 can try their hands at ringing.

Walkers should wear suitable footwear and bear in mind the weather on the day. Belstone walkers should leave their cars in the car park at the edge of the village and walk to the church. Gidleigh walkers should meet as close to the church as street parking will allow.

For more information on the listening walks, call Emma Bush at Aune Head Arts on 01822 890539 or e-mail [email protected]">[email protected] ? alternatively, call Andy Stevens on 01392 438064 or e-mail [email protected]">[email protected]