PRIME Minister Tony Blair is launching a restoration project at a County Durham park this morning.
Mr Blair will plant the first beech tree in the restoration of the avenue at Hardwick Park, in his Sedgefield constituency.
In keeping with 18th Century tradition, Mr Blair will also unveil a commemorative stone to mark the event.
The tree planting is the start of a large-scale scheme to return the park to its former glory.
The tree is the first of 15 to be planted this season by Durham County Council.
The blueprint for the work has been drawn up by landscape consultant Steven Desmond.
Some of the ornamental buildings designed during the 1750s, which are now in an advanced state of decay, will be reconstructed.
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