VOLUNTEERS are being sought to help look after Chester-le-Street’s Waldridge Fell.

The taste of countryside volunteering will include removing small trees and saplings to increase the survival of the heather, juniper, bilberry plants and wildlife that make the area special.

Maria Murphy, Durham County Council’s development officer, said: “Waldridge Fell is one of the last remaining areas of lowland heath in the county and it’s important that we take steps to preserve it.

“We’re inviting people to come along and join us in helping to look after this special part of our environment.

“We’d love to see people, whether they can spare five minutes or the full two hours.

“There will be something for everyone to take part in – from taking out plants and saplings to helping to remove chopped trees.”

Information on other countryside events, guided walks and becoming a countryside volunteer will be available.

To take part go to the Waldridge Country Park’s Tinkler Row car park on the Waldridge to Edmondsley between 10am and noon on Saturday, December 8. For further details go to www.durham.gov.uk/countryside or call 0191-372-9100.