A NEW drive to make more of one of Harrogate's attractions has won the backing of the local branch of the Rotary Club.

The town is renowned for its spa heritage, the famous Stray and its burgeoning reputation as a conference venue.

The Valley Gardens are also a popular destination for day-trippers, with more people walking the paths among the flower beds since thousands of pounds of National Lottery money were invested in the restoration of the Sun Colonnades and the Sun Pavilion.

However, many may not venture as far as the Pinewoods, which link the park with nearby Harlow Carr Gardens - so an initiative has been launched to make more of the woodland.

It is hoped those already aware of its place in the town's history will join a new Friends of the Pinewoods organisation, which will play a key role in helping Harrogate Borough Council plan for the future.

"With the inclusion of such things like a sculpture trail and an arboretum walk, our aim will be to regenerate the Pinewoods in such a way that it will help provide a long and delightful horticultural experience and the perfect day out, for all seasons," said the authority's cabinet member for leisure, Councillor Pat Marsh.

The Rotary Club of Harrogate has already agreed to help co-ordinate the project.

Spokesman Terry Knowles said: "We hope this new group will work with us to organise various projects with community groups, which may involve bulb- and tree-planting, interpretation boards for nature trails and the provision of bird and bat boxes."