RESIDENTS of a village which has its roots in Saxon times are being given a say in the future of their community.

Claire Lamb, 29, from Sherburn Village, is carrying out a survey of village life as part of her degree in Environmental Management.

Questionnaires have been sent to every household in the village asking them about improvements they would like to see and the positive and negative aspects of living in the community.

Once Claire has the results she can compile a report, suggesting where funding for projects or improvements can be found.

Claire, who is studying at Durham University, organised a 'Future Needs' evening last Sunday at Sherburn Community Centre where residents discussed their views.

Sherburn Village can trace its roots back to the early seventh century, when it was known as Scireburn and it grew around the mining and agricultural industries.

Now only one farm remains and Claire hopes the future of the village will be shaped by people living there now.

She said: "The survey is asking about the quality of life in Sherburn. The setting up of a community partnership is one of the things that might come out of it."

Collection boxes for the questionnaires have been stationed at various locations throughout the village and must be returned by Monday, September 9.

All completed questionnaires will be entered into a free prize draw for a signed football from Sunderland Football Club, a camera, food hamper and beauty vouchers.