PEOPLE in one of the country's most deprived areas will be encouraged to take pride in their environment with a new project.

In a bid to improve community spirit and the way in which people care for their surroundings, a Shildon church has become the driving force behind the scheme.

St John's Church successfully applied for funds to set up the Mustard Seed Project, which was launched this week.

The £20,000 grant from the Church Urban Fund - a not-for- profit organisation that supports social action - will pay for a new community development worker.

She will work closely with a host of community groups in the town, including the church and the Jubilee Fields Community Centre.

It is hoped the project will encourage residents of the town's Thickley ward to take pride in their surroundings.

Residents will be urged to join in environmentally-themed ventures to tidy up the area.

Helen Cole, who has been appointed in the new role, said the project will be community driven.

She said: "This is not about the church or the centre going out and dictating what needs to be done.

"We want residents to tell us what they feel needs to be done to make them feel better about where they live. Whether that is picking up litter, starting a tidy garden scheme or planting bulbs.

"The Thickley Ward is one of the most deprived areas in the country and, in recent years, it has taken a few knocks. And that affects moral.

"The truth is that there are some fantastic people living here, who have already done so much to improve their community."

The Reverend Rupert Kalus, vicar at St John's Church, said: "The project is looking to make a difference to the confidence and quality of life of people in the local area.

"It is about having faith in our community and making the faith we have in God alive in that community in practical ways."

Anyone who interested in the project can leave messages for Mrs Cole at the Jubilee Fields centre, on Jubilee Road.