A WIDE-RANGING programme of projects and events for the next 12 months has been unveiled by Ferryhill Town Council.

In his annual report to members, executive officer Jamie Corrigan has outlined progress made on current schemes and plans for the next year.

Efforts to improve the entrances to the town are to continue. A 6ft tall stainless steel Davy Lamp monument, representing the town's mining heritage, is to be placed on a grass verge on the A167 entrance at Darlington Road.

The Queen's Golden Jubilee is to be marked with a commemorative fountain in the town hall gardens, opposite the Millennium sundial.

The council is to involve children from the Ferryhill youth caf steering group in designing the fountain. The e.caf itself has been one of the success stories of the past year and the partnership work involved in making it a reality is seen as a blueprint for future projects. Further work will be done on increasing the opening hours.

Work is ongoing on the extension to Duncombe Cemetery and the next phase includes the construction a new car park and garden of remembrance.

The council also plaans is to build on its programme of events including the now annual summer gala organised in partnership with the Ferryhill 2000 committee.

The inaugural winter market will be built on and other events will include a five-a-side tournament on August 24, together with a Sure Start fun day at Mainsforth Sports complex when the new play equipment will be officially opened.

The council will bid for a £50,000 grant for Doorstep Green status after being successful in the first phase. This will help to fund pathways, lighting, a youth shelter, trees, a nature garden and many more features, most of which should be complete by the end of the financial year.

Deputy leader Joe Chaplin said: "We as a council are delighted with the progress that we're making, especially with the youth caf."