Water Haigh colliery on the edge of Woodlesford and Swillington, near Leeds, was once a centre of industry but is now dominated by pathways, trees and wildlife.

Thanks to a series of successful bids to Biffaward, Green Leeds Limited and the Forestry Commission, Leeds Council's Parks and Countryside team have been able to plant new trees, strengthen hedgerows and create new footpaths for people to access the park in Fleet Lane, Oulton.

The park is helping to transform the once industrial lower Aire Valley into a haven for wildlife.

It is also helping forge a major green corridor connecting St Aidan's Country Park, Rothwell Country Park, Temple Newsam estate and extending towards the city centre.

New signs and interpretation panels have been installed as well as a seating and picnic area along the edge of the Trans Pennine Trail. The park is also home to over 40,000 new saplings.

Leeds City Council executive member for leisure John Procter said: "Its great to see the old coal mine transformed into an area of natural beauty."