A community in North Durham have taken a lead in making a positive difference to the area where they live.

The first event of the project, organised by Catchgate Regeneration Partnership, involved a community litter pick with partners from Durham County Council, Derwentside Homes and Groundwork North East. Catchgate Horticultural and Planter Society (CHAPS) also supported the event, by providing some equipment.

A skip was funded by Councillor Michele Hodgson and Councillor Thomas Nearney, to encourage residents to dispose of clutter and large items. Attending the event, Councillor Thomas Nearney said: ‘This is a perfect demonstration of the sense of community we have in Catchgate, and the responsibility we all have in making the area a better place to live.’

‘I want to say a special thank you to Catchgate Regeneration Partnership for their work in organising this event, and for their dedication towards future events as part of the neighbourhood improvement project.’