AN attractive new interpretation panel has been presented to a village school to help pupils recognise all the trees that can be seen in its grounds.

The panel, which has been made by Lightning Signs and features native trees painted by local artist Geoff Hewitt, has been donated to the school at Cotherstone, near Barnard Castle.

It was a gift from Trees for Cotherstone, a group set up three years ago to look after all the varieties in the locality and encourage the planting of more of them.

Headteacher Rebecca Jellis said: "I am sure the panel will help the children to take more interest in the fine trees we have in our grounds. It will continue the beneficial link which Trees with Cotherstone has had with the school since it was formed."

The group also gave the school a new notice board, which was made by Teesdale Garden Crafts. Both were handed over during a fun session at which a conjurer called Mr Twister entertained the pupils with tricks and jokes.

Ian Moorhouse, chairman of Trees for Cotherstone, said: "We aim to make people more aware of the importance of trees, both as landscape features and for wildlife.

"We enjoy working with the school to spread that message. Mr Twister has ensured the children will not forget the afternoon."