A COMMUNITY group will celebrate its first anniversary by opening a children's games area.

During the first 12 months of the St Ann's Development Board, residents on a number of Stockton estates have seen a range of improvements.

The community partnership consists of residents, business representatives, and councillors from Portrack, Tilery, Victoria, Queen's Park and Mount Pleasant.

In the first year, the board has funded a multi-use games area, four CCTV cameras, off-road motorbike support from Stockton Police, community enforcement officers, and a new fence around Tilery Primary School.

It has also arranged "bring out your waste" and litter picking sessions.

To mark the anniversary, residents are invited to join the board for the official opening of the games area at Willow Community Centre, which is attached to the Tilery Primary School, between 1.30pm and 3.30pm, on Friday, June 1. There will be plenty for all ages to enjoy, and free food and refreshments.