AN interactive CD Rom has been created which allows people to view the landscape of the Tees Valley and shows how virtual woodland can be created with a click of the mouse.

The Tees Forest and the Virtual Reality Centre at the University of Teesside have worked together to create Virtual Landscapes, a programme which enables the Tees Forest to demonstrate its role in the regeneration of the Tees Valley.

The Virtual Landscapes programme includes features which show how areas can be transformed through tree planting schemes.

The project was made possible with funding and support from the Northern Rock Foundation, Countryside Agency, Business Link, University of Teesside and the European Regional Development Fund.

Glenn McGill, director of the Tees Forest said: "The Virtual Landscapes Project is the result of a very productive partnership with the Virtual Reality Centre.

"This technology enables us to model proposed improvements to the Tees Valley landscape through greening and is an excellent device to promote our work.

"It is one of many projects within The Tees Forest which show our commitment to regeneration and the consequential improvements to the economy, tourism and the living, working and recreation environments in the area."