A GROUP of residents in Ingleby Barwick have formed a working committee with the aim of improving activities, facilities and community spirit in the area.

Ingleby Barwick Residents' Network came into being earlier this month following a public meeting at the Bannatyne health club on July 12.

Committee chairman Debbie Shariati said: "We want to start looking at issues that affect Ingleby Barwick and get residents involved and get them talking."

A sub-group - Ingleby Barwick Next Generation - has been formed to look at ways of increasing the number of play areas for young children and addressing the shortage of facilities for older youths.

"We also want more things like bike stands, litter and dog bins and more trees planted," added Mrs Shariati.

She said the residents' network was in talks with Stockton Borough Council about a possible community garden.

"Once we have our constitution in place, we can start applying for grants and hopefully get things moving."

The group also has plans to introduce more activities and events in the area, the first of which will be a Christmas gala, and is looking for community groups and schools to take part.

Mrs Shariati said: "We hope to see 2004 out with a magnificent show of community spirit in Ingleby.

"A Christmas craft fair is planned to run alongside the gala, with many exhibitors coming from Ingleby Barwick, so if anyone is interested in taking a stall, do get in touch."

For more information, contact Mrs Shariati on 01642 751130.