A CAMPAIGN to secure the future of one of the country's most rapidly declining migratory birds has received the backing of North-East polar explorer Robert Swan.

During the launch of the campaign to help increase the number of spotted flycatchers in County Durham, Mr Swan made a "virtual appearance" with a previously recorded video presentation.

The launch, at the Bowes Museum, in Barnard Castle, was to promote the Spot the Flycatcher campaign, which will be run by the Durham Biodiversity Action Plan.

Pupils from Startforth Primary School, near Barnard Castle, and Marjorie Bolden, chairman of Teesdale District Council, also attended the presentation.

The campaign will make 500 nesting boxes available to Teesdale District Council to be distributed to the public, schools and local community groups, along with a factsheet.

The aim is to encourage more spotted flycatchers to nest in County Durham. The species has declined in number, from 250,000 to just 95,000 in the past 25 years.

Mr Swan, who is also an environmental campaigner, said: "This is an excellent example of acting locally to address wildlife issues that, with a migratory species like the spotted flycatcher, cross continents.

"Children will be crucial in spreading the word about the campaign - clearly the next generation are a vital force in securing the future of both our local and global wildlife."

Anyone interested in locating a nest box should contact Jane Welsh, at Teesdale District Council, on (01833) 696273.