ANOTHER major step in the area's 'greening' was taken with the opening of a third nature reserve.

Mayor of St Helens, Councillor Pat Robinson planted a commemorative tree when she officially opened the new reserve at Sidings Lane in Rainford on Wednesday, Jan 31.

Sidings Lane - the site of a former colliery - has become the Borough's third wildlife site as part of a 10 year environmental programme. Other reserves are at Stanley Bank Meadow in Blackbrook and Clinkham Wood. Youngsters from Rainford C of E Primary School and Dr Will Williams, the North West Team Leader of English Nature were among those invited to the opening.

Councillor Terry Hanley, Portfolio Member for Environmental Protection, said: "This programme is an important element of the Council's Policy for Nature and access to nature is a prime objective.

"Sidings Lane is a thriving woodland site which provides a great opportunity for local people to enjoy wildlife and to participate in their local environment".