A SCHEME that gets Sunderland youngsters looking after the environment has been given Royal approval.

Eco Rangers, which has been running for three years and involves more than 4,000 youngsters, was given a special mention in the Queen Mother's Birthday Awards.

The awards are organised by the Tidy Britain Group to honour people and groups who make their environment better.

Eco Rangers, run by Sunderland City Council, is aimed at primary school pupils who help super hero Eco Ranger to save the planet.

A council spokeswoman said: "More than 4,000 children have so far taken part in challenges ranging from dealing with chemical hazards and pollution to household recycling and the creative use of waste.

"This is the scheme's third award in the last 18 months.

"Last August, it scooped a prestigious gold trophy at the Green Apple Environment Awards 2000.

"This followed on from an environmental health and sustainability award from the National Clean Air Society.'