FARMERS in County Durham are being urged to give a much-needed boost to wildlife, and save cash.

Durham County Council is calling on them not to cut their hedges, and instead, let nature take its course.

According to research, cutting hedges each year has a marked effect on their long-term survival, and also reduces their value for wildlife.

An estimated 228km of hedgerow becomes derelict in County Durham each year.

Bill Kirkup, the council's hedgerow project officer, said many landowners could benefit from thinking again about their management of hedges.

He said: "The irony is that it is frequently more expensive to cut on an annual basis than to follow good practice by cutting either every two or three years.

"Realistically, there will always be hedges that farmers will need to cut annually, such as those which affect visibility on roads and pose a potential danger to motorists, but many can simply be left alone.

"By thinking again about hedge management issues farmers can do themselves a huge favour as well as giving a helping hand to wildlife.''

The council is telling farmers that significant improvements in the health of a hedge and its wildlife can be achieved by taking a more flexible approach to management.

A new advice leaflet is being prepared and will be available to farmers and landowners shortly.

It is the latest initiative of an ongoing field boundary project, which the council is supporting.

It provides advice on all issues concerning field boundaries, and grant assistance for hedge restoration.

For more information about boundary hedge grants and management plans, telephone Mr Kirkup on 0191-383 4078.