VILLAGERS said they were happy that a well-used community hall will remain open.

Esh Winning residents pledged to fight for Woodlands Road Communal Hall after hearing it could be shut by Durham City Council because it was underused.

Residents said it was valuable for community activities, and the council, which is reviewing the area's communal halls, said the scare was sparked by a mistake on a report to cabinet.

Council leader Councillor Sue Pitts, cabinet member Fraser Reynolds, and community services director David Marrs told a meeting of residents that the hall was safe.

Mr Marrs said: "It was down to a slight drafting error in a fairly innocuous report that was taken out context.

"It is one of our three most popular facilities and has exceptionally good use.''

Residents spokesman Bob Heslop said they were "pretty agitated'' at the thought it might close but added: "We are happy with the promises we have been given, that we are not closing, as long as they put it in black and white.''