FED-UP homeowners have teamed up with a property company to tackle a recurring vandal problem.

Residents in Horden have been working alongside East Durham Homes (EDH) to stop repeated attacks on fencing in the village.

Wooden fencing in the Davies Walk, Naisbitt Avenue and Mouter Close areas had become unsightly and dangerous after being vandalised.

Members of Horden Residents' Association brought the problem to the attention of EDH estate officer Brian Miller.

He said: "With funding from the Neighbourhood Management Pathfinder and Community Safety Partnership, the old fencing has been replaced with new metal guardrails."

Barry Jones, secretary of the residents' association, said: "The wooden fencing was a bit of an eyesore and was always being broken by kids.

"The new metal fencing looks a lot better and the kids don't seem to bother with it. I've heard a lot of people remarking on how good it looks.

"We are very pleased with the work that has been done.''

Stuart Wood, estate management co-ordinator, said: "This project has not only improved the environment, but also reduced the amount of vandalism in the area.

"The success of the scheme shows the kind of good work that can be done when residents and estate officers work together.''

EDH is now working on repairing guttering and brickwork on garages in the area.