DURHAM City Council has launched an initiative to reintroduce natural flowers and insects to the area.

Under the Wildlife on your Doorstep initiative, the council is encouraging people to make more of the city's natural green spaces and trying to develop wild flower meadows.

City council leader Fraser Reynolds said: "We have got a fantastic district for wildlife. The Wildlife on your Doorstep initiative is all about celebrating that biodiversity, encouraging the creation of further areas to provide food and habitats for wildlife, and encouraging more people to make more of their natural green spaces."

Councillor Anji Rae, for environment and leisure services, said: "In addition to the work which the council is doing in public parks and open spaces, the local community can support and increase wildflowers and wildlife in domestic and community gardens.

There are many things people can do. From bugs and slugs to butterflies, birds, frogs and hedgehogs. This all helps to create a green and sustainable environment."