RESIDENTS are being given the chance to voice their views about a sculpture planned for their community.

People in Wheatley Hill are being invited to voice their opinions on a work of art by local artist Graeme Hopper.

Mr Hopper was appointed by Groundwork East Durham in partnership with Wheatley Hill Regeneration group and Easington District Council.

In preparation for the sculpture, he has held a series of four workshops with organisations in the village.

In addition, local schoolchildren have also produced ideas for the sculpture as part of their curriculum.

Now an initial design has been produced, pictured left, signifying the dawn of a new day and the forward-looking vision of the community.

It also incorporates sunflowers to represent a new lease of life and future growth of the former pit village.

The design will be on view at Wheatley Hill Community Centre from today until August 15.