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, near Durham, is carrying out a survey of village life as part of her degree in environmental management.

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

Claire will compile a report, suggesting where funding for projects or improvements can be found.

Claire, who is studying at Durham University, has also organised a Future Needs Evening, on Sunday, September 1, at Sherburn community centre, where residents can discuss 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, which must be returned by September 9, have been placed at various locations throughout the village.

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