WALKERS across Pelton Fell, near Chester-le-Street, have a clearer route to follow thanks to the efforts of volunteers.

Members of Durham County Council's Voluntary Countryside Rangers teamed up with the Pelton Fell Environment Group to clear overhanging branches and litter from 230 metres of footpath running through the beauty spot.

The work is the first project to be undertaken by a partnership of the Durham Wild-life Trust, Chester-le-Street Biodiversity, Groundwork West Durham, Pelton Fell Environment Group, and the county council.

It will be followed by work to clear about a mile of path at the Cong Burn next Wednesday.

"Pelton Fell Environment Group is trying to do general environmental improvements in the area and the rangers helped out by clearing the overgrowth from the path," said group spokesman Mike Jones.

"Their efforts were rewarded by members of the nearby bowling club, who turned out to serve them a refreshing cup of tea.