Nature reserve plan put to public

Local people are to be consulted about plans to create a nature reserve in County Durham.

Leaflets have been sent to homes in the Horden area asking for ideas on turning 60 hectares of land into Horden Denes Local Nature Reserve.

Public consultation sessions will also be held where people can see and talk about the proposals.

The area includes woodland and grassland, and is home to a variety of plants and animals.

Ian Armstrong, Durham County Council's community wildlife officer, said: "We're hoping to inform as many people as possible about the proposals because we want local people to be involved in their site.

"The land was formerly part of the Turning The Tide project and this designation will take it on a step further."