A COMMUNITY partnership launched to improve one of County Durham's most deprived areas is looking to an even brighter future.

Since the formation of Coundon and Leeholme Community Partnership three years ago, the group has helped transform the two villages into more attractive, friendly neighbourhoods.

The partnership pulled people from both communities together and has spearheaded a number of projects, including the re-launch of a summer carnival, public art designed by local schoolchildren and new activity groups.

It has encouraged residents to work with various agencies to make it a better place to live and work. The partnership was re-launched as a limited company this week, opening up new funding opportunities now that the £50,000-a-year start-up grant is finished.

Partnership chairman, and Wear Valley District Councillor for Coundon, Neil Stonehouse said there was a renewed sense of community spirit.

He said: "So much has improved because local people wanted to make it a better place to live and made it happen. There are more than a dozen groups based at the partnership centre now and new shops and a health centre being built. There is a positive feeling here now."

The partnership will hold a launch day today, starting with the unveiling of a statue designed by local schoolchildren in Coundon centre at 11am, followed by an open day at its Tees Walk base, from 11.30am