WORK is under way to reopen more rights of way.

Durham County Council is hoping to reopen the paths following the lifting of foot-and-mouth restrictions.

Less than eight per cent of a network of more than 4,300 paths remains closed.

"Any closures are concentrated around Tow Law, Crook, Staindrop and Cornsay," said Chris Tunstall, the county council's director of environment and technical services.

Some routes may stay shut until March or April, to ensure cleansing processes are complete.

Anyone wanting further details is asked to contact 0191-383 3452