A project aimed at providing a healthy lifestyle for residents has been given a civic seal of approval.

The Mayor of Seaham, Councillor Charles Walker, joined forces with members of local organisations and children from the town to formally launch the Parkside Community Allotment.

The community garden has been developed by Groundwork East Durham and Parkside Community Centre, which jointly aims to get residents gardening to improve their health and fitness.

The two organisations have worked together to transform the neglected plot into an allotment suitable for all.

The amenity garden has been divided into a number of small plots, each having the benefit of a communal greenhouse, shed, tools and seeds.

Libby Mahoney, project officer at Groundwork East Durham said: "The opening event marks the real start of the community allotment in Parkside.

"The allotment has so much to offer the community and it will be great to see it well used."

Groundwork is also operating a similar scheme in Easington Colliery on the Withering Hope site.

Anyone interested in becoming involved in the project can contact Brenda Hodgson, at Parkside Community Centre, on 0191-581 3908.