THE Bishop of Durham joined with community leaders to officially open a multi million pound crematorium yesterday.

The Wear Valley Crematorium in Coundon, near Bishop Auckland, is the first eco-friendly facility of its kind to open in the region.

Its furnace system abates harmful mercury emissions from teeth fillings and reduces CO2.

The Rt Rev Tom Wright dedicated the building and looked on as the Dignity Funerals’ crematoria manager Steve Gant unveiled a commemorative plaque.

"On behalf of all Christian churches in the area I would like to say thank you to all those who worked so hard to make this a place of peace and serenity," he said.

"It will provide a great deal of comfort for those who need it and need it as much as those who come here."

Wear Valley Crematorium manger Kevin Tomlin said: "We employ local people and we are also bringing trade and commerce back into the area.

"People who use the crematorium will also use the facilities in the town and it will hopefully increase local business in the area."

Chairman of Durham County Council Brian Myers added: "I am to witness what it is a first for Wear Valley - we have our own crematorium and the people who live here can come and pay their last respects."