SCHOOLS in Darlington are leading the way in the search to find the area's most environmentally-friendly people.

Youngsters are involved in a range of green schemes, including recycling paper, planting gardens and learning about saving energy.

Pupils at Mowden Infant School, Harrowgate Hill Junior School and Mount Pleasant Primary School are among those taking part in environmental schemes.

The Northern Echo has joined forces with Darlington Borough Council to find groups, schools, businesses and individuals who are doing their bit to help the local environment.

Anyone who is working to help the environment in any way can be nominated as a Doing Your Bit supporter.

The best environmental helpers will be presented with prizes at an environmental roadshow later this month.

Nominations should be sent to: Doing Your Bit Competition, The Northern Echo, PO Box 14, Priestgate, Darlington, DL1 1NF, before next Monday.