A WEST Devon farming couple have been running courses for budding smallholders who want to test their dreams before taking the plundge into the good life.

Andrew and Debbie Kingsley, from Northlew, have been giving courses on their 108 acre farm over the last year.

The two day Introduction to Smallholding course has left participants full of ideas and plans and given them a sense of what is involved in becoming more self-sufficient — although they are reminded that it is not yet possible to pay utility bills in eggs and meat.

There is also a one day DIY website course for farmers and smallholders who have holiday cottages or B&Bs, and who want to advertise or put their farm or smallholding on the web.

The course teaches how to create and maintain their own website.

After 20 years of doing it for themselves, Mrs Kingsley said: 'As the economic downturn takes a firm hold, more people than ever are considering how they can become increasingly self-sufficient, and these days that might mean more than growing a few spuds, sprouts and strawberries.

'The interest in keeping enough livestock to fill the freezer is gathering momentum and people need to know how to manage their livestock both responsibly and legally.'

The next course will be held on Thursday, July 1 and Friday, July 2.

For more details phone Debbie on 01837 810569 or visit http://www.smallholdertraining.co.uk">www.smallholdertraining.co.uk