RARE trees have been planted in Darlington as a symbol of revival by three organisations.
Two black poplars have been planted in Westbrook Dene as part of a plan for a nature reserve.
Local residents hope to attract more wildlife and improve the area. If it is a success, the scheme could be extended to other denes along Cocker Beck.
Shirley King, of Westbrook Villas Residents' Association, said: " Thirty more trees are coming from the council at a later date and school children are making bird nest boxes and bat boxes. We saw the wildlife around here and there has been areas where there has been vandalism. This is an attempt to support the wildlife."
She said there were already kingfishers and water voles on the beck nearby, where it is protected by private gardens.
Helen Tomb, of the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers, said: "What we are doing is trying to attract some funding to make it into a nature reserve. Hopefully the project can eventually be carried throughout the denes."
The third organisation involved was Darlington and Teesdale Naturalists Field Club.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article