CHILDREN in east Durham will be taking part in an educational campaign aimed at improving the environment and tackling litter problems.

Pupils from schools in Wingate will be getting involved in a week of activities, including education sessions and litter picks, as part of the scheme.

The event, which is organised by Durham County Council in partnership with Wingate Parish Council, Durham Constabulary and the Probation Service, is aimed at instilling pride in local communities as well as encouraging young people to throw their rubbish away correctly and help keep their neighbourhood clean and tidy.

Students from Wellfield Community School and parish council representatives will be taking part in a litter pick in the pit heap area of the village tomorrow (Thursday, September 24).

On Friday (September 25) pupils from St Mary’s Primary School will receive a visit from the council’s anti-litter mascot Tidy Ted, before joining a litter pick.

There will also be a free dog microchipping event between 10.30am and 1.30pm at Gully House Community Centre.

Tidy Ted will then visit Wingate Infant School on Monday (September 28) before pupils at Wingate Junior School will be taught about litter and the impact it can have on the environment.

The Probation Service will also be carrying out clean-up sessions in the village on Thursday (24 September) and Friday (25 September).