THOUSANDS of pounds have been promised to a Teesdale village for environmental projects.

Gainford could be in line for grants worth £32,500 to fund landscaping projects in the village.

Suggestions for improvements include replacing bollards on the green, landscaping the Lord Nelson island and west gateway, and renovating High Green Bank with new topsoil and daffodils.

However, Gainford and Langton Parish Council has said it is important the money is spent on what residents want.

The grants have come through Durham County Council's Urban and Rural Renaissance Initiative, which is providing up to £20,000, and Teesdale Transitional Targeted Wards Package, which is donating £12,500. The scheme will be overseen by Groundwork West Durham.

Tim Rounce from Groundwork said the £12,500 had already been promised and the £20,000 bid looked very promising.

A spokesman for the county council said a sum of £15,000 to £20,000 had been agreed in principle, but a final assessment would have to be made.

The parish council has said it is delighted at receiving the money, but it is keen to spread the cash around the village and not just concentrate on the village green area.

The council hopes to hold an exhibition to give residents a chance to air their views.

Councillor Ken Hodgson said: "We have got to take the reins in this. We ought to set up a working committee to let them see what Gainford wants, rather than be told what we're getting."

Councillor Brian Biddiscombe added: "This is a major achievement and we ought to be trumpeting it."