YOUNG wildlife enthusiasts are enjoying half-term activities held this week at North-East nature reserves.

Durham Wildlife Trust has arranged a varied programme of events to appeal to younger visitors to its reserves at Low Barns, at Witton-le-Wear, and alongside its headquarters, at Rainton Meadows, near Houghton- le-Spring.

Sessions are being staged daily on different themes, to encourage younger age groups to develop an interest in the flora and fauna of the region, as well as to beat the boredom of the half-term holiday.

"Animal Magic" looks at the hiding holes where hibernating mammals disappear to during the cold winter months.

"Autumn Harvest" is a celebration of the colourful season, while "The Incredible Journey" looks at the migration of hundreds of thousands of native birds during the winter.

A one-off special after-dark event, on a Hallowe'en theme, will be staged at Rainton Meadows, on Saturday.

'Nightwatchers' will involve participants sitting around a camp fire, making pumpkin lanterns, hearing creepy stories, before taking part in a game of apple bobbing.

They will then go on a torch-lit tour of the reserve to make a night-time examination of local wildlife.

Trust education officer Alison Hiles encouraged potential participants to book in advance.

She said: "It's essential. We've been overrun at some sessions so far. Too many people came along and we've had to turn some away. It's unfortunate, but if it's too crowded it spoils it for everyone."

"The Incredible Journey" will be staged today, from 1.30pm to 3.30pm, while "Nightwatchers" is on Saturday, from 7pm to 9pm, both at Rainton Meadows, and both costing £2 per child.

Further details are available on 0191-584 3112.