A WILDLIFE organisation hit by the foot-and-mouth crisis has launched an emergency appeal for funds.

Durham Wildlife Trust could lose up to £20,000 due to the restrictions and is also experiencing difficulties managing its nature reserves.

Chief executive Richard Wood said: "Normally we are at our busiest at this time of year. Instead, everything is at a standstill and cancelled until further notice. Most of our reserves are closed so we cannot manage them for wildlife.

"We are also unable to get out into the countryside to recruit new members and raise funds, both of which we depend on."

The Graham Easby Visitor Centre, Low Barns, Wearside, and Bowlees Visitor Centre, Middleton-in-Teesdale, have been closed since February 23, and there is no possibility of them opening for at least six to eight weeks.

More than 3,000 schoolchildren usually visit the centres during the spring and summer terms, but because they are closed the trust has already lost about £5,000 income.

It is also having difficulties recruiting new members due to the cancellation of events.

The trust can apply for a European grant for up to £7,000 to market its activities once the outbreak is over. Mr Wood said: "We will certainly be going for the grant but at the moment we are really struggling."

Anyone able to help can contact Durham Wildlife Trust on 0191-584 3112