FOR those intrigued by the ancient art of dowsing, a practical workshop is being held for those who want to learn more about this skilled tradition on Saturday, March 16.

Former Bridestowe resident Charles Palmer will run the hands-on one day workshop at Crediton Arts Centre, which will look at how to find water courses, energy lines, archaeological remains and ley lines.

Mr Palmer has dowsed across the local moorland, including the Nine Maidens stone circle at Belstone.

Mr Palmer is particularly interested in tracing buried foundations, and has found the sites of old manor houses, chapels dating back to medieval times and blacksmith shops dating from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Charles, who has more than ten years experience in dowsing, said: 'Although dowsing is usually thought of as looking for water with a forked hazel stick, it has many uses ranging from looking for pipes and drains, archaeological remains, lost objects, missing people, Roman roads and much more.'

The course runs from 10.15am to 4pm and costs £18.75 with refreshments.

Anyone interested in finding out more can call Mr Palmer on 01392 426692.