DURHAM County Council has unveiled a winter programme featuring more than 60 guided walks.

The programme runs from January to March and begins on New Year's Day with a ten-mile walk near Durham, led by voluntary countryside ranger Steve Shippen.

The walk starts at 10am from the Broompark Picnic Area on the B6302 to Ushaw Moor, half a mile from Stonebridge.

The programme continues until the Easter weekend and includes ten miles along the Teesdale Way with countryside officer David Ranner on January 6 and an eight-mile Spennymoor and Ferryhill circular walk with voluntary countryside ranger Michael Ord on January 13. There is also a series of photographic walks with Philip Nixon, including a Seaham Saunter in March.

All walks are graded for ease. On longer walks refreshments, boots and waterproofs are essential. Tickets, unless specified, are available on the day at £2 (concessions £1). Copies of the programme are available at libraries, tourist information centres and from County Hall in Durham.

For details call (0191) 383 4144.