Â鶹Éç

Sean is a few miles south of the river Tees where industry gives way to some spectacular beaches...sands that are vital for wildlife.

At this time of year, they’re a hotspot for a diverse range of over-wintering birds but, at the same time, they're an important playground for us humans - and our dogs.

Sean meets Stanley, a 12-week old Border Collie, who's got some serious training to do.
He's signed up to the Ambassadogs scheme, which aims to help dog-owners and their pets enjoy the beaches without impacting on the wading birds that come here over winter to feed and rest.
ÌýÌý

Tom investigates one of the most immediate consequences of climate change for the UK: flooding.He's in Lincolnshire to see how rural communities recently hit by torrential downpours are coping.And he discovers the threats posed to farming and food production and looks at whether more could be done to protect them.On the edge of the North Sea, he sees how local landowners and the authorities are working together to defend both town and country against rising tides.

The North Pennines is a landscape that captures the imagination of Paul Stangroom, an artist who re-creates the wild open spaces in watercolour. 

Paul takes us on a ramble around the moors to visit some of the old, abandoned buildings he’s painted over the years.

And we see inside his studio where he paints the pantry window of an old farm cottage.

We may be on the cusp of winter but there’s still plenty of work to do down on the farm.

Even in late autumn, Adam is lambing - that's out of season for most breeds but, unlike the average ewe, his Poll Dorsets have the ability to conceive all year round.

Meanwhile, Adam has to say a fond farewell to one of his favourite Highland bulls, Archie, who's being moved onto pastures new.

Surrounding the lower reaches of the River Tees is the Tees Valley, where the industrial landscape meets green and fertile countryside.

Sean travels to 

Errington Woods to join a group of visually-impaired walkers who regularly come here to take in the surroundings.

The walks are organised by Pam Bennett, who set up ‘Going for Independence’, a social enterprise that helps people enjoy the countryside with a truly sensory experience.

Helen drops in at the Tees Barrage International White Water Centre.

Using the power of the river Tees, four giant Archimedes screws pump water around the course turning it into a thrill-seekers' paradise. 

This world-class facility has given young people in the area the opportunity to compete at international level and Helen meets four young hopefuls planning to one day make it to the Olympics. 

But when Helen has a go things don't quite go to plan...