YOUNGSTERS have taken a leading role in creating a much-needed community youth centre which will open its doors for the first time today.

More than 30 young people have been involved in designing and decorating the ambitious Easington Colliery Youth Project.

The new centre has been set up to provide a safe and enjoyable meeting place for the village's young residents.

The need for the project was identified by the local Young Persons' Task Group, which includes the District of Easington Council's anti-social behaviour unit, the police, Easington Colliery and Horden Neighbourhood Management Pathfinder organisation, Groundwork East Durham and Durham County Council's education in the community group.

Backed by the partnership, a total of £55,000 from the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund and Pathfinder money was secured to transform a former shop and upstairs flat at Seaside Lane in Easington Colliery into the youth centre.

The centre, which will be officially opened at 11.30am today, houses a cyber caf with four computers, games consoles, pool table and an arts and crafts room.

There is also a special "chill-out'' lounge area, tuck shop and caf.

The new facilities will be made available to other organisations which are involved in education, social, environmental and healthcare services to work with young people visiting the centre.

Councillor Joan Freak, Easington District Council portfolio holder for social inclusion, said: "This project is a significant step forward for young people in Easington Colliery and we hope it will be well used and that it will become a focal point for young people in the village.''

Sue Burbage, chairwoman of the Young Persons' Task Group, said: "I would like to thank all key partners for their part in getting this project successfully off the ground."