REFUGEES have been helping to instil pride into a housing estate.

Young people, members of a women's activities group and families seeking asylum have joined forces to brighten two community venues in Thorntree, Middlesbrough.

They have been working alongside professional artists Helen and Derek Gaunt to create a series of mosaics in an £8,000 project called Windows of Opportunity.

The pieces of art are being used to transform boarded-up windows at Thorntee Library and enhance the exterior of Thorntree Youth and Community Centre.

Last June, asylum seekers, refugees, and other people living on the estate celebrated their diverse community by holding a multicultural event.

Yesterday, six mosaics were unveiled at Thorntree Library.

Three depict the sun, moon and stars and three show rainbows, with the words Thorntree Library running through them.

Another three mosaics with sport-related images will soon have pride of place outside the youth and community centre.

Geraldine Purvis, who lives in Thorntree, said: "We enjoyed making the mosaics and encouraging everyone to be involved. It was very therapeutic and gave us a sense of fulfilment to see the finished pictures brighten up the area."

It has taken eight months to complete the six mosaics, in a project that has involved 35 people from diverse backgrounds.

Funding for the scheme was secured from Stem (Stronger Together in East Middlesbrough), Groundwork South Tees, Tees Valley Community Foundation, Middlesbrough Council's children, families and learning department.

Stem community worker Lynn Pallister said that the initial idea to enhance the exterior of the library had come from staff and some members of the senior women's activities group.

Young people who were invited to contribute their ideas agreed with staff and residents that creating mosaics would be a good idea because the windows to the rear and side of the library made the building look derelict.

A group of refugees and asylum seekers were working with Stem and they showed interest in learning more about mosaics.

Ms Pallister added: "This project is an excellent example of residents working together to improve their neighbourhood, encourage community cohesion and create a sense of pride."