Sedgefield has been awarded a Local Heritage Initiative grant to restore its village pump and develop a heritage trail around the town.

Community groups were considering ways of renovating the pump, a familiar landmark on the village green, but can expand their plans thanks to the £24,000 grant.

Once the pump is restored and surrounded by old granite sets, it will become the starting point for a heritage trail reflecting Sedgefield's mining connections.

Two cast iron information lecterns will be erected at the start and halfway point of the trail, while heritage plaques will mark buildings of historic interest.

Sedgefield Town Council is carrying out the project, which is supported by Sedgefield Community Association, the Rotary Club, Sedgefield in Bloom, the Local History Society and schools.

Children are researching and interpreting the history of landmarks along the route.

Advice from a conservation specialist will ensure the work reflects the character of the town.

Once the project is complete next July, a Heritage of Sedgefield booklet will be distributed to every household along with leaflets and maps.