A LEAFLET giving details of countryside activities taking place in and around Darlington has been published.

The Countryside Events Programme 2006 is now available, offering people the chance to explore the area's rural hidden treasures and wildlife.

Among the attractions are full programmes of events for West Park, in Faverdale, and the Maidendale Fishing and Nature Reserve, at Firthmoor.

Wildlife enthusiasts will have the chance to search for bats, bugs and black poplars, while educational events for youngsters are also included.

Young explorers can also enjoy the great outdoors in events at Drinkfield Marsh and Geneva Wood.

Darlington will be hosting several events in the Tales from the Tees Storytelling Festival, including an adults-only session for the first time.

For a copy of the programme, contact the Countryside Team on (01325) 388648, or pick one up from Darlington Town Hall, the tourist information centre in Horsemarket, Hopetown House, Crown Street Library or Cockerton Library.