IT is pay back time for amphibians who helped save an open space from housing development.

When the great crested newts were discovered in the Rossett Acre area of Harrogate more than two decades ago the protected species played a key role in securing the establishment of the Rossett Acre Nature Reserve.

Environmentalists fought a long battle to secure the open space for future generations, but their trump card was discovering great crested newts in the area.

But now the newts at the reserve are in trouble and youngsters from nearby Rossett Acre Primary School are coming to their rescue.

Adventurous newts straying from ponds in the reserve have been tumbling headlong down roadside drains - and have been unable to emerge from their unwanted hiding place.

Pupils at the school studying wildlife at the reserve have linked up with Colin Slator who manages the site for Harrogate Borough Council. And on Monday they will be putting in place mesh ladders to help the newts climb out of the drains and return to their rightful home.

Mr Slator said he was delighted the pupils had taken an interest in the reserve, particularly as it contained great crested newts. "They are an endangered species and need protecting so the help from the school is really appreciated," he said.

The youngsters will also be putting up information posters about the site asking visitors to care for and respect the reserve