A PROJECT to transform two former pit villages is hoping to attract 10,000 volunteers next month.

The Bloomin Marvellous project aims to spruce up the communities of Easington Colliery and Horden, near Peterlee, this summer.

It is being spearheaded by graduates Kate Welch, Peter Coe, Mike Storey and David Robinson.

They hope the project will not only improve the appearance of the villages, but will create jobs and foster a stronger community spirit.

The project also aims to lay the foundations for entries in the Britain in Bloom contest next year.

About 5,000 hanging baskets and tubs will be put up in the two communities on Monday and Tuesday, July 5 and 6.

Trees will be planted, wasteland cleared, gates and garden walls mended and rubbish cleaned up.

To make the project a success, organisers believe they will need the help of about 10,000 people.

Several businesses have already pledged their support. Magazine publisher Informnorth, based in Peterlee, has designed a campaign logo and provided hundreds of posters, fliers and leaflets, which will be delivered to every household in the area leading up to the clean-up.

Mike Storey, of Informnorth, said: "It's important even for smaller businesses like ourselves to play a role in the local community and it was nice to be asked to help out in any way we can.

"We are pleased to support Bloomin' Marvellous as it is an excellent idea and one that will improve the environment of the villages and also create jobs.

"Sometimes just the little things can make a difference and it's hoped that Bloomin' Marvellous will plant the seed for closer partnerships that will benefit the local community for the future too."

Horden-based firm Actem has offered the use of a forklift truck to move compost and street furniture in to place, and Ash Tene, also of Horden, has offered the use of a warehouse on the Seaview Industrial Estate to store the plants.

Polytunnels have already been set up in Horden to grow the bedding plants in preparation for the July 'Groundforce' event.

But more help is needed from local firms, such the use of as wheel barrows, trowels and spades.

Any businesses who can help is asked to telephone David Robinson on 0191-586 3366. To register as a volunteer for the July clear up, telephone Sue Walton on 0191-586 6040.