PART of North Yorkshire's most spectacular countryside is in line for a facelift under plans to help restore ancient woodlands, ruined buildings and landscape features.

The work is due to be carried out over the next five years as part of the key aims of the new management plan for the Howardian Hills, which was launched this week.

Paul Jackson, project officer for the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which covers 44 parishes and 79 square miles, said the plan will focus on the area's wealth of cultural heritage, landscape, nature and biodiversity priorities, from the restoration of marshy grassland and the reduction of scrub invasion, to creating new grazing areas and renovation of scores of historic landmarks.

"The area plays an important role in both local and regional landscape and wildlife conservation, as well as in tourism and leisure," he said.

The plan has been drawn up with help from parish councils, North Yorkshire County Council, Ryedale and Hambleton district councils, the Forestry Commission, Countryside Agency, National Farmers' Union, Ramblers' Association, Country Land and Business Association, and English Nature.

It includes help to restore wetland habitat sites, restoration of plantations on ancient woodland sites, and giving advice to landowners, farmers and owners of old buildings.