CHILDREN joined local councillors for the opening of a road safety scheme's latest phase on Thursday.

To make the area safer for pedestrians and cyclists, Durham County Council has carried out a series of improvements in Passfield Way and Yoden Way, Peterlee.

They include building mini roundabouts, improving cycle tracks and crossings, footpath links, and adding a pedestrian guard-rail.

There are also two toucan crossings - for cyclists and pedestrians - between Pennine Drive and Waveny Road, and Grampian Drive and Tweed Close.

As well as those in Passfield Way and Burnhope Way, a cycle track linking with the town centre has been provided in Yoden Way.

Children from North Blunts and Shotton Hall junior schools joined county councillors Dennis Coates and Len O'Donnell to launch the improvements.