WALKERS are being offered the chance to explore a new North-East woodland area next week before it fully opens to the public.

A wildlife walk on Tuesday will give participants an insight into the South Burdon community woodland, on the outskirts of Darlington.

Local wildlife expert Gordon Simpson will lead the walk through the woodland, which is owned by Forest Enterprises and runs alongside the original Stockton to Darlington railway track bed.

Walkers should meet at 7pm at The Farmhouse Inn pub car park, near Morton Park.

For details or to find out more about the South Burdon Community Woodland group, telephone (01642) 300718.