A PROJECT to improve playing fields in the Stanley area is up and running.

The £130,000 scheme will pay for drainage works and upgrade facilities on football and cricket pitches at Tantobie Community Centre, near Stanley.

Sport England provided a £100,000 grant under the Playing Fields and Community Green Spaces Programme, funded by the New Opportunities Fund. An additional £30,000 will come from Derwentside District Council.

Colin McBride, sport and activity manager at Derwentside District Council, said: "Derwentside Sports Development supports sport at the grass roots level - and that's what the Community Green Spaces programme is about."

The project aims to encourage increased use of the centre and enable more players to improve their skills.

Councillor Anne Taylor, district council portfolio holder for stronger communities, cut the first ground.

"This is an excellent example of how the council can work with the community to help attract funds," she said.

"The project will provide a superior outdoor playing facility and will be an investment for the future community of Tantobie and the surrounding area."