SPRING has sprung at Durham’s Botanic Garden, with visitors challenged to spot signs of the seasonal changes taking place by the day, despite the recent wet weather.

Spotter sheets are available from the site’s visitor centre, with parties and individuals tasked to discover Signs of Spring throughout April.

Despite the unusually cold March weather, belated signs of life are starting to be seen round the garden, including the ponds by the gazebo, which are said to be teaming with frogs and toads, while in the woodland garden several early bloomers are growing by the day.

The garden, on Hollingside Lane, off South Road, is now operating on its spring and summer opening hours of 10am to 5pm, with the usual charges applying of £4 for adults, £3 for concessions and £1.50 charge for students and children aged above five. Further details are available via 0191-334 2887.