TWO children helped to open a road that they hope will help to improve the future of their town.

Joanne Carlyle and Andrew Cox, both 11, joined the Minister for Local Government, local MP Hilary Armstrong, and the leader of Durham County Council, Don Robson CBE, in opening a new £780,000 road in Consett.

It's hoped that the road, which links the Genesis Project development area with Park Road, thus providing a southern bypass of the town, will help to create more jobs.

The multi-million pound Genesis development centre is on the site of the former steel works where Joanne and Andrew's fathers worked. The children attend St Mary's RC Primary School in Blackhill and they also helped to unveil a commemorative plaque.

Coun Robson said: "As well as an important part of the Genesis Project that is helping to create new prosperity for the town, the new road will greatly benefit everyone who uses Consett town centre."

The building of the road was funded by Durham County and Derwentside District Councils and the European Regional Development Fund. It will also serve Park Road Industrial Estate and a housing development under construction.