A PROJECT to improve woodlands and riverbanks around Durham Cathedral has stepped up a gear ready for the onset of Spring.

The Cathedral has appointed two new woodland officers, launched a historical research project and litter picks are set to resume.

The moves follow the £700,000 landmark project being launched last summer following confirmation of a £287,500 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

The scheme will see new views of the Cathedral revealed, subsidence-threatened riverbanks stabilised, 200-year-old woodlands secured and footpaths improved.

Gina Davies and Julia Gannon Gowland joined the Cathedral as Woodland Project Officers in January.

Ms Davies is a former countryside manager and will lead all woodland management activities. Ms Gannon Gowland is a former education officer, who will lead programmes for schools, families and volunteers.

Meanwhile, local historian Dorothy Hamilton is leading a team researching the history of the area. Their work will contribute to interpretation signs for visitors.

Staff from Northumbrian Water will stage a litter pick on the riverbanks tomorrow. Tree surveys have already begun.

Michael Sadgrove, the Dean of Durham, said: "Durham Cathedral is privileged to own and care for a beautiful public park. The riverbanks are a jewel of our region and our city.

"I am delighted that this project enables us to conserve and use the woodlands and riverbanks so that the public can enjoy them now and in the future.

"We are very grateful for the commitment and support of the HLF and the Friends of Durham Cathedral in this project."

Ivor Crowther, head of the HLF North-East, said: "Durham Cathedral is one of the most spectacular buildings in the North-East.

"The project will see the landscape that surrounds the Cathedral revitalised, wildlife habitats protected and the site opened up for local people.

"It’s also great to see that volunteers will be involved. We are delighted to be supporting this project and are looking forward to seeing the end result."

Visitors are invited to make their own bird box at the Storytelling Chair sculpture, on the North side of the River Wear, near Prebends Bridge, on Saturday, March 17, from 11am to 3pm.

An open day for volunteers will be held in the Cathedral’s education centre on Wednesday, April 11, from 10am to 2pm.

For more information, call 0191-3744070.