FARMERS in Teesdale are signing up to a Government-led scheme to protect the area's wildlife and rural landscape.

Dozens of farmers around Barnard Castle have joined the Entry Level Agri-Environmental pilot scheme (ELS), drawn up by the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). The pilot scheme, one of four in the country, was launched on March 4.

It seeks to encourage farmers to employ environmentally enhancing measures on their farm.

The first of a series of workshops to promote the scheme was held at Romaldkirk Parish Hall on March 12.

So far, more than 30 farmers have applied to join.

The workshops will explain the scheme options, requirements, payment rates and rules, outline how to make a successful application and offer a chance for farmers to ask questions and get advice about their applications.

Cara Courage, of Defra's Rural Development Service, said: "Farmers will be rewarded for maintaining environmental features such as dry stone walls, hedgerows and rushy pastures."

Defra's Rural Development Service is holding workshops at Bowes Parish Hall, tonight and on Tuesday, and at Romaldkirk Parish Hall next Thursday, all from 7pm to 9pm.

For details, or to book a place, call Ms Courage or John Gornall on 0191-214 1800.