YOUNGSTERS from a primary school in Middlesbrough received a visit from Walter the water vole and Ricky the rat to expand their knowledge about life on the riverside.

Tees Valley Wildlife Trust and Busy Ape Arts called in to Overfields School to raise awareness of water voles.

Pupils made their own sponge puppets to help them tell the difference between the two creatures.

The event is designed to prevent the decline of the water vole population on Teesside by encouraging people to learn the distinguishing features of the animal and look at ways of protecting the species.

The east Middlesbrough Becks Valley officer has been working with local people to improve the habitat for water voles.

People wanting to get involved in the project are asked to contact Paul Little on (01642) 515612.