A scheme to extend and improve a Ferryhill cemetery has been given a £10,000 boost.

Lafarge, the building materials group, which operates the nearby Thrislington Quarry and Works, is supporting the Duncomb Cemetery scheme, in the Cleves Cross area of town.

The cash has been allocated from landfill tax credits the company receives from the Government.

As well as the money, Lafarge's restoration manager David Park drew up the design for the scheme, which includes an improved access road, car park, tree and hedgerow planting, remembrance garden and boundary fencing.

Dave Wilcox, manager of the works, said: "It is a worthwhile community project."

The scheme, which will cost £116,000, was conceived by Ferryhill Town Council.

The Lafarge donation will pay for tree planting and landscaping work. The scheme will be developed in phases and will take several years to complete.

Meanwhile, work is progressing on a project to improve the King George V playing field, in Ferryhill.

Closed-circuit television cameras, a BMX track, a floodlit basketball court, five-a-side pitches and seating have already been installed. Work is under way on the erection of lighting and play equipment.

The £100,000 project is getting a £25,000 grant from Lafarge through the landfill tax credit scheme.