THE transformation of a troubled estate into a thriving community is there for all to see in a celebration brochure.

It is five years since the Sherburn Road Initiative was launched to improve the lot of residents in the Durham City estate.

To celebrate the achievements of the scheme, which is led by Durham County Council and supported by One NorthEast, 1,500 glossy brochures have been distributed round the estate showcasing the transformation.

Ernest Dobson, director of the initiative, said: "What has been achieved so far, in terms of better housing, more job opportunities and a 'feel safe, be safe' factor, could not have been possible without the spirit of partnership that exists between residents and the private and public sectors involved in the initiative."

Residents celebrated the estate's renaissance at the Pelaw View Resource Centre where a wall mural featuring a giant bird made with the handprints of residents, was unveiled.

With one year to go in the six-year project, the results have already been positive. Initiative bosses say unemployment is down on the estate by 75 per cent and truancy levels are now below the County Durham average.

John Williams, deputy chairman of One NorthEast, said: "The ultimate test of the success of initiatives such as this is the reaction of residents, who have seen the before and after of the estate.

"Clearly, the residents are thrilled with the real difference that has been made to their area. Crime is down, unemployment is down and the standard of living is much improved."