FOUR Caterpillar workers have been recognised for their help to conserve a hidden gem in Peterlee.

The Wear Rivers Trust has been working with the Coastal Streams Partnership, Environment Agency and Northumbrian Water, to protect the Wapping Burn, which runs through the Peterlee Business Park.

Jim Wood, Paul Brown, Graham Smith and Gary Hammond, who work for Caterpillar, were given a Caring for the Environment Award from County Durham Environment Partnership and the Coastal Streams Partnership for their efforts.

Mr Wood, who collected the awards on behalf of the team, said: “It’s great to see all of the hard work coming together since I first got involved with the design stage of the project. The work being delivered on the burn is going to make a huge difference to the local environment and we all need to pull together and do our bit to keep it clean and tidy.”

The Wear Rivers Trust aims to create a thriving wildlife corridor, in the heart of the Peterlee Business Park.

Steve Hudson, senior project officer, is keen to speak with local business people and community groups who can spare a little time to get involved.

He said: “There is no need for a long-term commitment. Just an hour or two of time will make all the difference.”

For more information contact Mr Hudson on 07880 189231 or by email at steve.hudson@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk.