NEW wildlife officers have been appointed to encourage interest in the county's flora and fauna.

Jennie Garrod and Ian Armstrong want to generate enthusiasm in the wealth of wildlife and scenery on people's doorsteps.

Durham County Council has created the new posts with special funding from English Nature's Wildspace grant scheme.

Ms Garrod will look after the west of the county, while Mr Armstrong's patch will be the east. Both will share an office at County Hall.

Mr Armstrong said they were keen to engage the community to help them to enjoy and improve their surroundings.

He said: "One of the main aims is to get the message across that Durham County Council is taking wildlife issues seriously and realises that it's a magnificent resource for everyone to use and enjoy.

"People do not have to travel a great distance to see nature, it's right on their doorstep."

One of the first tasks is to encourage people to become involved on a voluntary basis by establishing and managing local nature reserves.

There are ten reserves in the county with a further nine proposed for the near future and more planned in the longer term.

Ms Garrod said: "Nature reserves increase awareness and enjoyment of the natural environment and provide an ideal place for people to learn about nature.

"They also help to build relationships between local authorities, national and local nature conservation organisations and local people, as well as protect wildlife habitats and natural features.

"We would also welcome ideas and comments from people about future strategies and initiatives."

The officers can be contacted on (0191) 383 4083.