MEMBERS of an over-60s group have done their bit to improve their local community, with the help of a former Durham mayor.

The last of 11 trees was planted in wintry conditions in the Nevilles Cross area.

All 11 have been bedded in on the fringes of the A167 Darlington and Newcastle roads, and the A690, through Nevilles Cross.

Members of the Nevilles Cross Over-60s Club have braved the cold in recent weeks, with their shovels and spades, after volunteering their gardening expertise to perform the planting.

The trees were donated by a former mayor of Durham, Coun George Wharton, as part of the proceeds of his appeal from his year in office.

City councillor Ron Dickie, also an Over-60s club member, joined Coun Wharton to bed in the last of the saplings near the Nevilles Cross Hotel.