Shildon'S rail heritage has been highlighted with the installation of two millennium gateways to the town.

The huge steel arches, which cost £10,000 each and feature the Timothy Hackworth Wheel design, were installed at either end of the main street, on Sunday, by Sedgefield Borough Council.

The arches took three years to construct. They were designed by council architect Bill Kataki.

Shildon town and borough councillor John Sedgwick said the impressive structures were the latest in a series of schemes to regenerate the area. They include a £6m project to set up an off-shoot of York's National Railway Museum in Shildon, housing up to 70 vehicles, which is expected to attract thousands of tourists a year.

Coun Sedgwick said: "The public was consulted on the design of the arches before they were drawn up. I think they are very impressive and that this, and the future projects we have coming, will kick-start the town."

The lower half of the structures will be clad with stone, and the arches will eventually be illuminated. They will be officially opened next spring.

Sedgefield Borough Council is also planning environmental improvements to the west gateway arch in Shildon town centre.

The tarmac, broken flags, stone and concrete walls will be replaced with new paving, seats, bins and improved landscaping.

The council's executive committee is expected to approve the work on Thursday