REPAIRS are to be carried out to six bridges in a project to improve a wooded area popular with walkers at Barnard Castle.

The Heart of Teesdale Landscape Partnership is to carry out the work as part of its Flatts’ Wood and Tees Bank restoration programme.

The bridges pass over Percy Beck and the work is designed to improve the walks through the woods leading from Scar Top.

Some of the funding has been provided via the Rural Development Programme for England through the Paths for Communities scheme.

Work begins on Monday, February 3 and it is hoped, weather permitting, to take 13 weeks.

All of the paths will remain open and only one bridge will be closed at a time but walkers are asked to follow warning signs.

Details of the work can be obtained from Emma Ashton-Wickett, the partnership paths for all people officer, on 03000-260645 or email emma.ashton@durham.gov.uk.