THE search is continuing for Darlington's most environmentally friendly people.

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

The Mortimer family, from Barnes Road, Darlington, are the latest to be nominated for being environmentally friendly.

Sarah Mortimer, 35, is chairwoman of governors at Mowden Infant School, and sits on a committee to oversee the school's environmental policies.

The school has been involved in the Eco-Schools project since 1998 and was the first school in Darlington to receive the Green Flag award for its environmental schemes.

Sam Mortimer, 36, is leading a pilot scheme at Cockerton Methodist Church, investigating ways of helping the environment.

The church was recently refurbished, and environmental concerns were taken into account to ensure it has eco-friendly lighting, heating and insulation.

The Mortimers also work to help the environment at home.

Mr Mortimer participates in a car-sharing scheme, while Mrs Mortimer cycles to work.

The family recycle their rubbish and purchase their electricity from a company that uses wind-powered generators.

They have installed extra insulation and low-energy light bulbs and have installed a high-efficiency boiler.

The Mortimer children also do their bit. Luke, eight, and Jeremy, six, recycle their magazines and turn the light off when they leave their rooms, and one-year-old Michael wears washable nappies!

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.