A SERIES of behind-the-scenes events are being held at an International Nature Reserve under construction in the region.

Throughout September, birdwatchers, environmental groups, schools, community groups, charities, disability groups and residents are invited to the events at Saltholme, organised by the RSPB and Teesside Environmental Trust.

The events will give people the opportunity to hear more about what is planned for the site, between Billingham and Seaton Carew, and to share their ideas with the people running the project.

The project is a major regeneration initiative that will see a former industrial site transformed into the largest wetland ever created in the North.

The site is expected to attract more than 100,000 visitors a year and will include a visitor centre, lakes, pools and reedbeds that will be a haven for rare wildlife. Numerous viewpoints, tracks and nature trails are planned.

The site will open in 2007.

RSPB project manager Kevin Bayes said: "The Saltholme project is as much about people as it is wildlife. We want to show local people what has been happening on the site so far and to share our vision for the future.

"The events we have organised are a fun way for anyone interested in this venture to come and see the work we are doing at the site and find out more about our plans."

Events planned include Transforming Saltholme, on Saturday, September 11, Animal Olympics, on Saturday, September 18, and Saltholme Open To All, on Saturday, September 25.

All the events start from the Clarences Community Centre, Port Clarence Road, Port Clarence, at 11am, with coffee and a short presentation on the Saltholme project.

All events are free.