AN MP is to gauge public opinion to see if there is sufficient support for a town council to serve a County Durham community.

North Durham MP Kevan Jones is urging the people of Stanley to back his bid for the new authority, which would have similar powers to a parish council.

Although served by Derwentside District Council and Durham County Council, Mr Jones believes the town, with a population of 24,000, deserves to have its own voice.

There has been a feeling, in some local circles, that Stanley is the poor relation in a district where the council is based several miles to the west, in Consett.

Other places of similar size in the county, including Seaham, Peterlee and Newton Aycliffe, already have town councils.

Mr Jones will be encouraging people to back his call when he holds a surgery in Stanley, on Saturday. He is mounting a petition and will be encouraging his constituents to add their names.

"A town council for Stanley would give local people a real chance to have their say. At recent public meetings it was made very clear there is strong support among residents for this idea.

"Now, we need to demonstrate that support by collecting as many signatures as possible. I'm urging everyone to come along and show their support, so that we can ensure the town council gets the go-ahead."

Mr Jones stages his regular surgery on the first Saturday of each month at the Asda supermarket, in Stanley town centre, between noon and 1pm.

But, on Saturday, local councillors and other supporters of Mr Jones' proposal, will be at the store collecting signatures for the petition from 8.30am.

Constituents wishing to speak to Mr Jones, in person, for help and advice, can ring the store, on (01207) 235721, to book an appointment.