Artist and poet takes up wildlife mantle

Tees Valley Wildlife Trust described Kirsten Luckins' talents as "unique"

A poet has been appointed to try and bring people closer to nature through art.

As artist in residence, Kirsten Luckins will create projects and activities over the coming year to showcase the region's wildlife and landscapes.

Tees Valley Wildlife Trust described her talents as "unique" and the work would be "engaging and thought-provoking".

Ms Luckins, from Hartlepool, said it was an honour to take up the new role.

Tom Harman, CEO for Tees Valley Wildlife Trust, said: "Our green spaces are more important than ever for people and communities, for physical and mental health.

"They should be safe havens for people as well as wildlife.

"This collaboration will create space for conversation to understand a deeper meaning of connection to our local nature sites."

'Bladerunner factories'

Ms Luckins, from Hartlepool, said she hoped she would do "justice" to the role.

"Growing up in Teesside I probably took our nature reserves for granted, but as an adult with a busy life I'm more and more grateful for the everyday contact I can have with wildness on my doorstep," she said.

"People sometimes assume there's nothing here but Bladerunner factories, but what I love about this area is the combination of our industrial and natural landscapes.

"I hope to do it all justice."

The artist said her work would highlight the local environment