CHILDREN can look forward to a new play area in their village after more than £4,000 was secured to plan the development.

The Stanley Crook Community Association launched a campaigned to create a play area in the village, near Bishop Auckland.

After months of applying for grants, the association has been awarded money through Durham County Council's Community Resource Fund.

A series of public meetings, with Groundwork West Durham and residents, will be held to design the play area.

It will be built on the recreation field, next to Jobson Terrace, from which a set of swings have been removed.

Debbie Ingoldsby, of environmental charity Groundwork West Durham, said: "Kids in Stanley Crook need a facility and the community association has campaigned tirelessly, regardless of any setbacks, to secure funding for one.

"The members have worked extremely hard to get to this stage, but there is still a long way to go, at least now they have something to build on and can start planning the improvements."

Anyone with suggestions for the playground, fundraising ideas or who wants to help with the project, can attend the community association's monthly meetings, on the second Monday of each month in the village hall, from 7pm.

Youngsters who want to share their thoughts can attend a meeting at Stanley Crook Youth Club, on Monday June 24, 6.30pm, or call Debbie Ingoldsby on (01388) 662666.