Even better, the pupils were able to offer useful tips for improving the 2km trail that takes walkers from under the arch at Kielder Castle to the campsite along streams where they may be able to spot signs of water voles along the way.

The Ratty trail is free and includes a Restoring Ratty Rubbing Trail pack that enable Ratty Trekkers to find out more about water voles by doing brass rubbings along the way.

The Trail is part of the ‘Restoring Ratty’ Project, which is run from Kielder Castle. It is aimed at the reintroduction of water voles to the Kielder Water and Forest Park area, delivered by Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Forestry England and Tyne Rivers Trust and funded by National Lottery players through a grant of £421,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.