HIKERS and backpackers can now put their heads down for the night secure in the knowledge that they are helping the environment.

Britain's first "eco-friendly" hostel is opening today on the edge of the North York Moors, at Lockton, near Pickering.

A £300,000 refurbishment has created a showcase building for the Youth Hostel Association (YHA) which is expected to win a four-star rating.

Wherever possible, sustainable features have been added to minimise the environmental impact of tourists travelling to enjoy the scenery.

Among the new features are showers heated by solar panels on the roof, a dry compost toilet and a system which harvests rainwater and other "grey" water to flush lavatories.

The building is insulated using sheep wool and a new extension also has a living sedum roof, the foliage of which should provide a habitat for local wildlife as well as adding extra insulation.

Funding came from the North Yorks Moors National Park Authority, North Yorkshire County Council, as well as £45,000 from the Rural Enterprise Scheme.

The YHA's regional manager, Simon Ainley, said: "This area of Yorkshire attracts visitors from far and wide and this building will deliver several aims.

"It helps to reduce the impact our visitors make on the environment and helps to educate them about the issues it also offers advice on how they can be more environmentally friendly in their everyday lives."