A FREE workshop aimed at farmers, woodland owners, foresters and land managers is being held next month in the Tamar Valley, for anyone interested in applying for Countryside Stewardship. The event, organised by the Devon Greater Horseshoe Bat Project, Natural England, Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Upstream Thinking, will provide up-to-date guidance on the mid-tier scheme requirements, submitting successful applications and who can help in the area. Becky Hughes, farm conservation adviser and county coordinator for the Campaign for the Farmed Environment, FWAG, will also be attending the event. Anna David, advisory officer for Devon Greater Horseshoe Bat Project, sdaid: ‘Countryside Stewardship provides financial incentives for land managers to look after their environment. ‘The mid-tier element of this offers options to achieve simple yet effective environmental benefits. ‘This is the area we will be focussing on during the day, and will include a visit to a nearby farm to discuss stewardship options in context.’ Lesley Strong of Tamar Valley AONB, said: ‘Following the wet winter, I’m sure there’ll be interest in soil and water management options, while plans to restore wildlife habitats, and especially helping our important greater horseshoe bat populations and keeping the character of the local countryside could also be supported through countryside stewardship.’ The free event, including a pasty lunch, will be held on Wednesday, April 13, from 10am to 2.30pm, at the Tamar Valley Centre, Drakewalls, near Gunnislake (PL18 9FE). Booking is essential. Please contact Devon Wildlife Trust on 01392 279244, email [email protected]