IMPROVING activities for young people became a clear priority for a new community forum at its inaugural meeting.

Residents and community representatives attended the first meeting of the East Durham Rural Corridor Area Action Partnership at Sedgefield Community College, last night.

The AAP is one of 14 established by Durham County Council to create a link between the new unitary authority and communities across the county.

It covers a diverse area including Cassop, Quarrington, Coxhoe, Kelloe, Sedgefield, Fishburn, Bradbury, Mordon and the Trimdons.

Delegates at the meeting considered what the AAP should focus on and applicants were sought for a board consisting of councillors, partner organisations and members of the public.

The main priority highlighted was activities for young people, followed by community spirit and aspirations, support for the voluntary and community sector and sustainable transport.

People also discussed whether the AAP could influence the educational attainment healthy lifestyles of residents and street cleanliness after earlier consultation highlighted them as areas for potential improvement.