CALL centre workers rolled up their sleeves to help a conservation project.

Workers from the Barclays contact centre in Sunderland helped out at Durham Wildlife Trust's wildlife garden at Strikes Lambton Garden Centre, Bournmoor, near Chester-le-Street.

The first job was to dismantle an overgrown rockery, dig in sustainably-produced compost then re-build the area for replanting.

Their second task was to prepare a disused area for a planned haven for insects, including butterflies and bumblebees.

Bumblebees are seriously in decline and Durham Wildlife Trust recently launched a regional garden survey to assess their numbers as a prelude to devising ways to save the creatures.

Janetta Scurfield, a volunteer and founder member of Durham Wildlife Trust, who has been involved with the garden for 17 years, said: "The Barclays team have achieved an impressive transformation, adding greatly to the interest and attraction of the site.

"Maintenance of the garden is a full-time job and we are always on the lookout for volunteers to help.

"We're all delighted and very pleased with the support that Barclays are able to provide."

Stella McRae, Barclays community manager, said: "This project builds on our existing community partnership with Durham Wildlife Trust and I am delighted that our employees have given practical support which will make a real and lasting difference to the community."

For further details about the trust, contact Mark James on 0191 584 3112.