A £1M project to promote healthy living was unveiled in east Durham yesterday.

The Health for All project was launched at South Hetton Community Centre to make a difference to people's lives in an area of traditionally poor health.

Residents were invited to learn more about the scheme and health development work in the area, and a free lunch was provided.

They could also sample taster sessions on the themes of getting active, healthy eating, beating stress, and communication.

Since the project was given the go-ahead last October, a number of activities and services have already been set up, including physical activity classes, a healthy eating course, and stress-buster sessions.

The scheme is being funded by the National Lottery's New Opportunities Fund, the Single Regeneration Budget, Easington Primary Care Trust and the Countryside Agency.

Craig Blundred, project manager, said: "The Health for All project aims to complement and work with existing local community activities in promoting health and well-being.

"The four strands of the project aim for a holistic approach to health improvement, with the overall aim of working with local people to create a place where the social, physical, emotional and economic benefits of good health can be shared."