A FORMER Sunderland goalkeeper has helped to commemorate the centenary of an organisation which serves the community.

The Durham Lions have planted a rowan tree to mark the organisation's 100th anniversary.

Ex-Sunderland goal keeper Jimmy Montgomery unveiled a plaque for the commemorative tree at Rainton Meadows, in Houghton-le-Spring, which is managed by Durham Wildlife Trust.

Alvan Bailey, a member of the club, said: "All the Lions are trying to put down a permanent marker in their local communities to commemorate the face we're 100 years old.

"We thought putting a tree in the bird watching area would be something to help the Wildlife Trust."

The Lions have donated £300 to the trust, as well as the St Margaret's Centre, Durham, which made the plaque.

The organisation also worked with around 240 pupils in three County Durham schools on a project to celebrate the centenary.

Children at Bluecoats C of E School in Durham, Oxclose Primary in Spennymoor and Esh Winning Primary School took part in a poster competition with the theme 'Australia'.

The winning posters are being sent to Durham Lion's twin club, in Hahndorf, in south Australia.

The Durham branch is in its 47th year.