A DERWENTSIDE green scheme is helping people in the district's new housing estates get together and improve their environment.

The Acorn Trust, based at Delves Lane, near Consett, has been working with residents on new housing estates for the past year.

Backed by the Environmental Action Fund and the Are You Doing Your Bit campaign, the trust has worked on seven estates.

It has helped build up community spirit by getting people to help with environmental improvement schemes.

One hundred people have taken part in the schemes and five sites have been improved.

Six walks have been held and two after-school nature clubs launched.

A spokesman for the trust said: "Recently, residents have taken part in events such as walks and barbecues.

"Residents from the Fieldings estate at Berry Edge, Consett, have also arranged and held a fun day within their estate.

"They celebrated their achievements to date with face- painting, beat the goalie, a treasure hunt, bouncy castle, tug-of-war and other activities.

"Over the coming months the Acorn Trust hopes to take the project into three new estates including Medomsley, South Stanley and Langley Park.''

He added that although the project was aimed at new housing estates, anyone who wanted to get involved should contact the charity.

People interested should call Steve on (01027) 582600.