Ranger's Call For Help On Nature Reserve

Ruth Congreve, a former ranger with Northumbrian Water, has taken on the new challenge at Maidendale Fishing and Nature Reserve, for Darlington Council.

She will be helping people living in the Moorfield estate, Firthmoor, take advantage of the opportunities to enjoy the outdoors close to their homes.

She will also encourage more people to become involved in the development of the four-year-old Maidendale reserve, on the edge of their estate.

She has already organised a variety of events for throughout the spring and summer, including fishing tuition, nature walks, practical conservation days and craft days.

The first event will be on Wednesday April 19 when a fishing exhibition, tree planting, boardwalk construction and crafts will be taking place around the reserve.

Miss Congreve, whose post is part funded from the Environment Agency and Government Single Regeneration Budget, hopes to become well known around the area so people feel comfortable talking top her about issues that arise in the area or asking to find out more about the rare wildlife on the reserve.

David Lyonette, Darlington Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Planning, said: "Ruth is Darlington’s first ranger dedicated to a nature reserve and we are hoping she will make a real difference to the area by encouraging residents to get involved in this amazing natural facility on their doorstep.”

For more information on the Council's Countryside Team.