A SERIES of events is being planned to get people interested in a Derwentside woodland.

Leadgate Area Partnership and the environmental regeneration charity Groundwork North East hope to encourage more people to explore Watling Wood, near Leadgate, over the summer.

The first event is a guided walk, with a scavenger hunt for children, on Saturday, May 25 at 1pm.

People will have the chance to say how they think the wood can be improved.

Future events will include litter picks, bug hunts and pond dipping. Sessions will also be held in local schools to tell pupils about the wood.

Everyone is welcome to the walk and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. People should wear appropriate clothing and stout footwear.

The activities are funded by local Durham County councillors Watts Stelling and Alan Shield through their Neighbourhood Budgets and are also supported by the Derwent Valley Partnership.

For more information about the events contact Lynne Miller at Groundwork North East on 01207-524803 or e-mail her at lynne.miller@groundwork.org.uk