A GREEN group is preparing for an action-packed environmental day in north Durham this weekend.

The Recreational Action Team (Rat) will be litter-picking, planting native species of heather and designing work for the future.

All tools and gloves will be available on the day, and the group is calling for anyone who is interested in improving the environment to lend a hand.

The work will be on the former recreational site on the far east of the village of Langley Park.

Conservationists noted that native heathers have grown to the extent that the site is now a dedicated local nature reserve.

The long-term plan for the site is to make it an important conservation area with native species of plants and associated animals.

The group will meet at the top of Park Drive, at the entrance to the recreation ground, at 10am on Saturday, and will work until about 3pm.

Anyone who would like to help can call chairwoman Alison Hiles on 0191-584 3112 or turn up on the day.

People are advised to wear old clothes, boots and wet weather gear and bring a packed lunch.