FARMERS, landowners and contractors are being invited to enter the Devon Hedge Laying Competition.

The competition aims to raise awareness of the good quality hedge management done in Devon by farmers and contractors who manage one of the county’s most valuable wildlife habitats and important landscape features.

Tom Hynes from the Devon Hedge Group said: ‘Hedges are an integral part of the landscape and wildlife of Devon but they all need management to stop them growing into a line of trees.

‘When hedges become thin at the base or too tall, hedge laying is the best way to rejuvenate them, keep them stock-proof and yet retain their wildlife interest.

To be eligible for the competition, the laid hedge must be more than 40 metres long and must be in Devon.

The contest is open to hedges laid over this winter and the closing date for entries is April 20.

Judging will take place in the middle of May.

Entry forms for the competition can be downloaded from the Devon Hedge Group website or call Tom Hynes on 01803 805265 for further details.

The Devon Hedge Group helps people to appreciate and understand the importance of Devon’s hedges as part of our landscape and cultural heritage, and for farming and wildlife.

The aim is to ensure that Devon’s hedges remain intact and healthy for future generations to enjoy.

There are more than 50,000km of Devon hedges in the county. They are of great historical importance, define the county’s beautiful farmed landscapes, and support an immense amount of wildlife.