A VOLUNTEER group has been set up to guide visitors around a North-East nature reserve.

Next month and in June, the "green guides" will lead free guided walks around the nature trail at Cow Green reservoir, in Teesdale, County Durham, every Sunday and Wednesday and on bank holiday mondays.

The guides will talk to visitors along the route to Cauldron Snout and point out features and wildlife on the way.

Visitors can then choose to accompany the guide back to the car park or explore and make their own way back.

To take part in the walks, meet at the display boards at Cow Green car park.

They will start at 2pm and return to the car park at 5pm.

They are an easy grade, mainly on tarmac, but flat shoes and warm windproof clothing is recommended.

The guides reserve the right to cancel the walks in poor weather. To check, call English Nature on (01833) 622374 during office hours.

They have been organised by English Nature's Natural Links Project, which is funded by the Your Heritage Lottery Fund.

The scheme has also been supported by Raby Estates.