THE “rich and striking” landscape of Upper Teesdale will be championed in a new book thanks to a cash injection of almost £10,000.

Durham Wildlife Trust (DWT) has been awarded a grant of £9,700 by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to support a project that aims to provide up to date information to residents and visitors about the area’s wonders.

The money will fund a new edition of ‘The Natural History of Upper Teesdale’, as well as talks, guided walks and educational activities for local schools.

DWT will link up with The Upper Teesdale Botany group, run by Dr Margaret Bradshaw, MBE, PhD and based in Middleton-in-Teesdale, to publish an updated edition of the informative book.

Dr Bradshaw, who is well known for her research into the plants of Upper Teesdale, said: “It is more than 50 years since the 1st edition was printed to reveal the wonderful structure and great variety of wildlife in Upper Teesdale to all.

“Much is unique and rare in Britain and this project aims to show how precious the wildlife and habitats are.

“The 5th edition will have a new look, will be updated with some new authors and will fill the gap from the publication of the previous much sought-after editions.”

Local experts will revise the text and invite extra information from local residents to inform their writing.

Exhibitions and workshops are to take place in the coming months.

DWT will also work with local schools to provide learning days to enthuse children about Upper Teesdale.

The project aims to increase the respect for habitats and wildlife in Upper Teesdale and help to promote better conservation.

Kirsty Pollard, DWT education officer, said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, the project will highlight how rich and striking the landscape of this region is.

“Education sessions and Community Events will provide engaging hands-on activities which will bring to life the dazzling world of the Upper Teesdale flora and fauna.

“We are excited to have this opportunity to link with local schools bringing ‘Young Scientists’ into the wild to explore the rich diversity of wildlife and geology in the Upper Teesdale area.”

The latest edition of The Natural History of Upper Teesdale will be available in early 2018.

Educational talks and guided walks are planned for spring and summer 2018.