A CONSERVATION group is holding two weekend events for bird-lovers and people interested in the area's trees.

On Saturday, January 21, between 10am and 2pm, the Durham Wildlife Trust will be planting trees at the Hylton Dene Local Nature Reserve, at Hylton Castle, Sunderland, replacing non-native white poplar saplings with native species.

As they mature, the ash, hawthorn and hazel will provide a home for wildlife.

Anyone interested in attending the free event should call Maurice Bates, Hylton Dene project officer, on 0191-548 0152.

The trust says that warm waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear and a packed lunch are required by people taking part.

On Saturday, January 28, between 1.30pm and 3.30pm, the trust's club for young environmentalists, Wildlife Watch, is holding an event about birds, at the Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve, Chilton Moor, near Houghton-le-Spring.

Youngsters will learn about the birds that winter at Rainton Meadows and Joe's Pond, such as the great-crested grebe and the pochard, and could see a short-eared owl hunting over the grasslands.

Youngsters will also be able to make some food to take home for the birds in their gardens.

The event costs 50p per child and under-eights must be accompanied by an adult. Outdoor clothing is recommended and more information can be obtained by contacting the trust on 0191-584 3112.