MORE than 900 villagers are being asked for their views about where they live.

The questionnaires have been delivered to homes in Tantobie, near Stanley, and its surrounding area as part of a community appraisal funded by an £8,000 grant from the Northern Rock Foundation. The idea is to draw up an action plan based on the findings to improve the villages of Tantobie, Tanfield Village, Clough Dene, White-le-Head, Flint Hill and Sleepy Valley.

The appraisal, led by marketing experts appointed by a steering group of villagers, is due to be completed at the end of August. A report will be submitted to residents for discussion before the plan will be drawn up and the whole project is due to be completed by the end of October.

Then villagers will begin the process of implementing the plan and making sure the appraisal results in genuine improvements for the area.

Local resident Mrs Rosemary Black said that the original idea came during discussions on how volunteers could improve the Tantobie Community Centre.

She said: "We hope people will use this opportunity to say what they think of where they live. The questionnaire is a vital part of the appraisal process and we are planning to visit homes by July 10, to collect the completed forms.

"The action plan will only be of value if it is based on accurate information which represents the views of the majority of people living in and around Tantobie. So we are urging everyone to fill in the questionnaire."

Villagers are also planning a fun day on August 20