A COMMUNITY forum has set new priorities and will give residents a direct say on how to spend its money.

The East Durham Rural Corridor Area Action Partnership (AAP) has laid out its objectives for 2012-13 following a vote by forum members.

Of the seven key issues highlighted, the AAP board decided to select the top three to concentrate on during the next financial year.

The biggest area of concern was activities for children and young people, with almost twice as many votes as the next- community spirit and aspirations along with support for the voluntary and community sector.

Employment and job prospects will also be the third objective.

The priorities are similar to those set for the current year but will each focus on the theme of access- aiming to improve access to each for residents.

The AAP has also decided to set aside a portion of its £120,000 annual funds for participatory budgeting.

The public will be asked which projects and groups they want to see receive a share of the cash.

The exact amount allocated for this pot and criteria for applicants will be determined by the board in March, after which applications will be invited.

It is expected that groups and projects will present their ideas at a community and AAP celebration event in the summer and people who attend will be able to vote on the day.

Jane Bellis, AAP co-ordinator, said everyone has different opinions about how public money should be spent.

She said: "Participatory budgeting enables local people to have a say on how public money should be spent in their area to help tackle local priorities.

"Due to the geographical spread and diversity of the area this AAP covers, the board felt this would help meet our communities specific needs."

The introduction of a participatory budget aims to build on a £30,000 small grants fund from which 21 different organisations including sports clubs, village halls, youth clubs and community groups benefited.

It attracted more than £17,000 of additional match funding.