CHRIS Jones sits with his friends from Rookhope in the bar of the village pub sharing coffee and biscuits. They are having a break between preparations for one of the many events that have were held at the pub throughout last year.

Mr Jones, who manages the pub with his friend Alan Jackson, believes that it is probably the only pub in the country that is run as a charity and relies on the help of volunteers.

The Saint Aidan's Trust was formed more than a year ago and relies on businessmen and women from throughout the region as its board of trustees.

The trust was formed to re-open the Rookhope Inn and give villagers somewhere where they could be a part of community life.

Mr Jones said: "I came up here to bring the dogs for a walk one day and noticed the pub was closed and thought it was a shame.

"I made a few inquiries and eventually we formed the trust and re-opened the pub.''

For residents it has become more than just a pub. Many of them volunteer for a host of activities.

Last year saw a number of bands visiting the village, as well as the formation of a darts team and youth forum.

Young people frequent the pub just as much as their parents, and there is a place set aside where they can chat.

The trust has even taken some of the younger generation on field trips that have included canoeing, archery and other outdoor activities.

Mr Jones said: "This organisation is here to serve the needs of the community.

"We have had some good events that have really generated a great atmosphere in the village, and we are getting a reputation for putting on a good night.''

The enthusiasm of Mr Jones and his team of friends is infectious, and it is hard not to get excited about what lies ahead for the pub.

Mr Jones said: "There are times when people who come to see the live bands may want to stay overnight and enjoy a drink, but there is nowhere really for them to stay, so we are putting in five bedrooms.''

This venture would see the pub offering bed and breakfast and could possibly create part-time work opportunities.

Currently the responsibility of the food is down to the volunteer work of probation worker Mary Auckland and joiner Neil Browning, who is also helping to build the bedrooms.

Mrs Auckland said: "We always do Sunday lunches and we will do our best to cater to everyone. We do this in our spare time and we enjoy it.''

The team is thinking ahead all the time, with a view to attracting tourists to the village. There are also plans for a bicycle repair service.

The cycle venture will lend bicycles to families and visitors, allowing them to take advantage of the glorious Weardale views.

Mr Jones said: "We have had a tremendous amount of support, especially from our local MP, Derek Foster, along with local councillor John Shuttleworth. What we have here is unique and so far, it has been a huge success.''