CRAFTS, produce and wildlife in ?Ruby Country? will be to the fore in a major festival to be held next month.

The first ever Colours of Culm festival takes place from June 5 to 13 in the beautiful Culm area around Hatherleigh and Holsworthy known as Ruby Country.

The Ruby Country Initiative, hosted by Devon Wildlife Trust in partnership with Torridge District Council, Devon County Council, West Devon Borough Council, LEADER + programme and Holsworthy and Hatherleigh MCTI, presents a number of events around the area for people of all ages.

Highlights include an Upcott Barton woodland craft open day, ?What is this Thing Called Culm?? talk and ?Touch the earth in a Tipi? ? a 3pm walk through Culm, looking at wildflowers and butterflies followed by a meal round the campfire.

Rosie Austin, DWT?s Ruby Country Co-ordinator said: ?With so much to offer in our area it was time to celebrate its diversity with a festival of fun. We have a super array of events for both children and adults.?

Culm grassland is the characteristic traditional pasture of north west Devon which is home only to a number of rare species.

The festival week will be during the prime flowering season of Culm grasslands which brings with it its gorgeous smells and array of butterflies. including the threatened Marsh Fritillary.

Rosie added: ?The week will also offer a number of educational events aimed at land managers who own Culm land or would like to reinstate Culm grassland.

?The events will show the benefits of managing Culm in the farming system.?

The finale of the festival will be the Ruby Run on June 13. This half-marathon is sure to get everyone?s heart racing at the end of what should be a fantastic week.

For more details about any of these events call Rosie on 01409 220036 or visit the new Ruby Country website at http://www.therubycountry.com">www.therubycountry.com