A WOODLAND drama called Yew Wood, wouldn't you? is on a five-week tour in the Tees Valley.

The tour has been organised by Tees Forest, and the play is performed by Blaize Theatre Company which will visit 38 schools with a total audience of more than 5,700 children.

As yew trees live for so long, part of the story is told through a tree's experience and shows how the landscape has changed during its lifetime.

The drama is an entertaining way of explaining the importance of trees, woodland management and the many uses of timber to a young audience.

Clare Lowe, lifelong learning programme officer at Tees Forest, said: "We hope audiences will take home the key message that trees and woodlands are a precious resource that must be managed properly for our own and future generations as well as enjoying an entertaining hour."

There are also a number of public performances. The next is on Saturday, July 3, at Darlington Skerne restoration site, at 1pm and 2.45. The play lasts about 45 minutes and is suitable for all ages.

Tees Forest, one of 12 community forests in England, aims to create a well-wooded landscape with opportunities for education, wildlife, work and recreation.

It is run as a partnership of the Countryside Agency, Forestry Commission and the councils of Hartlepool, Redcar and Cleveland, Middlesbrough, Stockton and Darlington.

The play is performed by Mike Bettison, Carolyn Fairlie and - appropriately - Jim Woodland