play and sports facilities have been opened, following a campaign by villagers.

The £92,000 scheme in Eldon was opened by ward councillor Vernon Chapman on Saturday.

The community playground and multi-use games area have been welcomed by villagers, many of whom have fought hard to secure the facilities.

In summer last year, Sedgefield Borough Council announced plans to spend up to £70,000 in extending the children's play park and transforming waste land between Eldon Bank and Office Row.

But a subsequent public meeting attracted only two parents, and councillors warned families that they had to prove there was demand for the equipment, or the money would go elsewhere.

The council said it would go to sites where unsafe equipment had been removed, where facilities were limited or where public consultation had shown demand for new equipment.

Villagers were shocked into action and formed the Eldon Community Partnership, which altered the plan to include a games area, to appeal to a wider range of young people.

Following more public consultation, the borough council put the plans back on the table. Durham County Council erected fences and improved footpath links, and Eldon Parish Council paid for seats, bins and environmental improvements.

After cutting the ribbon, Coun Chapman said: "I think the people in the community have done a really good job in getting this to fruition.

"There has been a lot of work put in by these people and I'm pleased for them."

The play area is suitable for children up to eight and includes swings, rockers and a climbing frame.

The multi-use games area is suitable for all ages and can be used for various sports and coaching activities.

At the event, organised by Sedgefield Borough Council and the Eldon Community Partnership, there were activities including football, basketball and cricket coaching.

There were also stalls and a visit from the fire service.