PEOPLE in Spennymoor can leave their mark on the town centre by helping to paint a film-themed mural to brighten up one of the main routes to the shops.

Spennymoor Town Centre Forum has launched an arts project that will see a 25-metre long mural created to brighten up the Old Venue site, in Cheapside.

The forum wants to improve the appearance of the site, originally home to a music hall, theatre and cinema, because it is in a prominent location next to the library and seen by most visitors.

Taking inspiration from the site's history, the theme of the artwork is to be films, with local people invited to contribute ideas for the scheme.

Town centre manager Wendy Benson said: "The mural started life as an idea discussed at the Town Centre Forum.

"It is exciting that funding has been secured to allow the project to progress.

"The mural will improve a prominent area of the town centre until its redevelopment."

The project will be the second of its kind in the town, following the creation of a mural based on Spennymoor through the seasons, which was installed in an archway off High Street last year, in memory of former mayor Councillor John Kitson.

Artist Douglas Hunter has been commissioned to work with local people to research the history of the site, and to suggest subjects and designs.

He said: "The movies is such a great theme and starting point.

"I am looking forward to seeing young people's designs and sharing the memories of how this used to be from the older participants."

Project managers for the scheme are Newcastle arts company Arts UK, which was also involved in the John Kitson Archway project.

Director Steve Chettle said: "It is an important project that will give local people the opportunity to get involved and contribute their memories and creative talents."

Residents are being invited to attend workshops at Spennymoor Library on the following dates: Tuesday, June 1, 6.30pm to 8.30pm (practical); Saturday, June 5, 1pm to 4pm (research/history); Tuesday, June 8, 6.30pm to 8.30pm (practical); Saturday, June 12, 1pm to 4pm (practical).