THE ancient art of dowsing is the focus of an evening lecture at the Devon Rural Archive on Thursday May 3.

The talk entitled 'Dowsing for Devon's heritage' will be given by professional dowser and author Alan Neal, who will talk about how his dowsing rods have helped to discover hitherto concealed secrets of Devon's past.

Abi Gray, consultant archaeologist at the DRA said: 'Many people are familiar with the concept of using dowsing to search for water.

'But it can also be of great assistance in helping to resolve unanswered questions about old buildings and landscapes, particularly when more conventional sources such as manuscripts, books and excavation have been exhausted.

'It can also be used to assist in the study of energy patterns associated with standing stones, circles and other ancient sites.'

Alan will be talking about some of the incredible discoveries he has made in Devon and Cornwall using his dowsing rods.

The lecture takes place at the DRA headquarters at Shilstone, near Modbury at 7pm.

Tickets cost £5 each, refreshments will be available.

To find out more or book tickets, contact Abi Gray on [email protected]">[email protected] or call 01548 830832.