A DREAM to create a wildlife haven is coming to life.

With the support of the local community, Durham Bird Club has been transforming Castle Lake at Bishop Middleham village, near Sedgefield, County Durham.

Landowners John and Michael Davison have worked with the club for several years to create a wetland nature reserve that is attracting increasingly diverse flocks of birds.

The scheme is the latest entry in The Northern Echo’s community environmental competition, Making a Difference.

Now in its 11th year, and sponsored by regional development agency One NorthEast, the competition honours volunteers improving the environment in Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, County Durham and the Tees Valley.

The volunteers in Bishop Middleham have received support from organisations ranging from a quarry company and councils to Northumbrian Water and the village primary school.

Recent developments have included new fencing, the erection of a hide and plans for a wildlife garden and bird feeding station for local children to visit.

To nominate your scheme for Making a Difference, submit the form printed in toad's The Northern Echo with as much information as you wish, or email deangriss@btinternet.com and request an entry form.

Forms will be printed in The Northern Echo until the closing date of August 15, along with updates on the competition. The first prize is £500.