LOCAL people are being asked to help shape the future of a nature reserve.

Darlington Borough Council's Countryside Team wants local people to join its Geneva Wood Local Nature Reserve Steering Group.

The nature reserve is one of Darlington's wooded areas and boasts a wealth of plants and wildlife, including Scots pine, roe deer, coal tits and bullfinches.

Steering group volunteers will be asked to decide what improvements they feel could be made to enhance the nature reserve, its wildlife and the overall experience of people visiting the area.

The group, which was set up last September, has already had a positive impact on the nature reserve through its work to reduce anti-social behaviour in the area.

This was achieved through increased site presence, vigilance from site users and a partnership with local police and community wardens too monitor the area.

The local reserves act as havens to protect and safeguard wildlife and nature sites.

Many local people already contribute to the ongoing development and improvement of the wildlife areas, which are managed by the council's Countryside Team.

The areas offer people a hands-on insight into nature and wildlife in the borough through nature trails, educational information and visits, viewing platforms, information boards, jetties and local artwork.

Anyone interested in joining the Geneva Wood Nature Reserve Steering Group is invited to attend the next meeting, on Wednesday, at 6.30pm, in committee room three at Darlington Town Hall.

Alternatively, contact Philip Roxby, local nature reserve officer at the council, on (01325) 388637.