VILLAGERS who helped design their own doorstep green are now joining forces with two artists to add some distinctive finishing touches.

Children and young people in Dene Valley, near Bishop Auckland, have joined in workshops with Neil Canavan and Graeme Hopper.

Members of the Dene Valley Young Voices groups, the Girls Night-in Club and the breakfast club worked on plans for seating, an entrance feature and a youth shelter.

Creative play ideas have come from Dene Valley Primary School, Dene Valley Mother and Toddler Group, the Sure Start Parent Group and children who took part in an Easter activity programme.

A nature trail on the site is linked to Wear Valley District Council's Wear Walking to Health programme.

A spokesman for the project said: "The workshops will not only result in artistic features for the park but will also greatly benefit those taking part through building their confidence and creating a sense of ownership. The improvements aim to encourage residents to use the site on a more regular basis and, through creative play, will encourage outdoor activities and education for younger children."

Dene Valley is one of 200 Doorstep Greens being created across the country under a Countrside Agency initiative supported by more than £12m of lottery grants.