YOUNGSTERS have put the finishing touches to a restored wildlife area.

Pupils from the Grove Primary School in Consett, planted 20 mature trees and a range of shrubs at Grove Ponds.

The site, which is owned by the Genesis Trust, was dug up to allow the installation of a new sewage pipe.

The trust and its offshoot, Project Genesis, is regenerating the large areas of land once occupied by the town's former steelworks.

Environmental group Groundwork West Durham restored Grove Ponds as a recreational area for people to enjoy the plants and wildlife. The area is also used as a teaching aid by the school.

Ian Spark, manager of Project Genesis, said: "It is fantastic to see so many young people helping to improve their local environment, especially on a site that is rich in wildlife and represents a marvellous educational resource."