YOUNGSTERS are being taught all about the countryside after the launch of a fishing and ferreting club.

The club was launched by the Shildon and District Countryside Movement and the New Shildon Angling Club to give young people in the County Durham town an alternative hobby.

Councillor Mike Hardy, from the Countryside Movement, said the club was already proving popular.

He said: "We set this up because some of the kids were knocking on my door and asking if they could come out ferreting with me.

"We are not talking about a bloodthirsty pastime. We are teaching them how to look after and respect the countryside."

So far, the young club has enjoyed outdoor life through a number of pastimes such as fishing, but they are now getting prepared for their first camping expedition.

Police have supplied with three tents and they will be accompanied by members of the Countryside Movement and fishing club.

Coun Hardy said: "We will be going to Brough and are setting off on the Good Friday and coming back on the Sunday. This is something that is taking the youngsters off the streets and they are really enjoying themselves.''

The club meets on Tuesday evenings in Old Shildon Workingmen's Club.