JOBSEEKERS have given up their time to help youngsters find out more about the natural world.

Workers from the Intermediate Labour Market team have created a wildlife garden at West Rainton Primary School, near Durham.

The team offers the long-term unemployed a year of work, to build skills and help to increase their chances of finding a permanent job. It is a partnership project between environmental group Groundwork East Durham and Houghall Enterprises.

The team erected a fence around the area and laid an eco-trail through the garden. They also planted trees and created a wildlife pond and meadow.

School reception teacher Helen Baker said "The children love learning about the environment and wildlife.

"Thanks to the team they now have an outside classroom on their doorstep."

Pupils at the school have named the area the West Rainton Secret Wildlife Trail