VOLUNTEERS in a village have had their hard work recognised with an award.

Waterhouses Community Association is a charity run by a committee of volunteers whose aim is to benefit the residents of Waterhouses and surrounding area.

Over the past two years, the team has rejuvenated the community.

One of the main projects has been raising funds for the restoration of the miners' banner, which now has pride of place in the village hall.

Due to the hard work that has been going on the village, one of the residents nominated the committee for a new national award, which recognises outstanding achievements by groups of volunteers.

The group is one of only four in the North-East to receive the award in its first year. The awards will be presented by Durham Lord Liutenant Sir Paul Nicholson later in the year.

A committee spokesman said: "The project we have worked on have really helped the village regain its identity and brought more pride into the people who live here.

"But, just as important, have been the arts and crafts, IT and keep-fit classes that have been provided for the benefit of all."