A MILLENNIUM project designed to improve neighbourly spirit in north Durham communities was hailed a success by organisers, yesterday.

Members of County Durham organisation the Acorn Trust, which aims to improve the area's environment, have worked on seven new estates to try to enhance community spirit in the past year.

The project workers have worked with more than 100 residents, helped to improve five sites, held six walks and set up two new after-school nature clubs in Derwentside.

A spokesman for the Consett organisation said: "The Environment Community 2000 project is now well and truly picking up steam and we hope to take the project to Medomsley, South Stanley and Langley Park in the coming weeks."

Anyone interested in the project, which focuses on Derwentside's new estates, can call the trust on (01207) 582600 or visit its offices at The Old Fire Station, Delves Lanes, Consett.