YOUNG people in Wyre Forest look set to gain a greater understanding about the environment around them thanks to the appointment of a new rangers development officer.

Wyre Forest District Council cabinet members have agreed to support the post, funded by the Worcestershire Children's Fund grant, over a two-year period from April this year.

The aim of the new position is to engage youngsters between five and 19 from the socially deprived areas of the district.

They will be encouraged to become more actively involved in environmental activities and foster good working relationships with existing clubs and schools across the district.

Areas to benefit will include Oldington and Foley Park, the Horsefair and Broad-waters and the Walshes area of Stourport.

Those areas are bordered by large nature reserves.

The post will be managed by the district council, which agreed to support the idea at a cabinet meeting.

The ranger will co-ordinate regular clubs and activities and events and look at conservation tasks, including survival skills, pond creation and outdoor cookery, with the aim of building respect for the local environment, as well as encouraging citizenship and self-esteem.

The funding is due to come from Worcestershire County Council's children's services.