A CONSERVATION project aimed at encouraging people to take pride in their surroundings is in the running for a national award.

The Heart of Teesdale Landscape Partnership is competing to be named Best Environment Project at the National Lottery Awards, which celebrate the UK’s favourite Lottery-funded projects. If successful, the County Durham-based project will win £5,000 and will feature on a BBC One television show in September.

Ore Oduba, who will present the programme, said: “Having won Strictly Come Dancing voting last year, I know how much getting public support means. Please take a few seconds to vote for The Heart of Teesdale.”

To vote, visit lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards before midnight on July 27.