Chester-le-Street'S first community environment group has been launched to conserve wildlife.
Chester-le-Street Action for a Sustainable Environment will carry out projects at the town's Riverside Park and other areas in the district.
Schemes that have already begun include installing bird boxes to encourage the breeding of the brown owl, sparrow and spotted flycatcher, plans to carry out a survey of brown hares, coppice willows and plant riverbanks to improve habitats, and a learning about otters programme that includes building a log pile holt to encourage them to return to the area.
Malcolm Pratt, the leader of Chester-le-Street District Council, said: "All of us are responsible for looking after our natural heritage and I can't think of a better way to improve the quality of life in relation to our environment.''
For details about the group call Mike Keenlyside, the council's Local Agenda 21 officer, on (0191) 387 2131, or project officer James Cokill on (0191) 584 3112.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article