A GOVERNMENT-backed parent and toddler group is hoping to be able to part-fund a venture with its local council to provide more play areas.

Sure Start in Stanley has already conducted a survey of the town's parents to find out what is needed in the town.

The group says it may be able to access Government cash to finance a joint venture with Derwentside District Council. The authority has indicated that it would be willing to discuss any proposals with Sure Start.

Sure Start questioned its 138 registered members - all parents of children under four - about what they thought the town needed for children.

Fewer than half responded but 78 per cent of those that did said they were not happy with the current range of provision for children under four.

More than 95 per cent said they would like safe outdoor play parks provided, 63 per cent said there should be play-and-learn workshops and 49 per cent said they would like storytelling groups.

Early years development worker Susan Duggan explained the results will help inform some of the future work of Sure Start.

She said: "The parents of Stanley are clear about what their children need - good quality, safe play facilities within easy reach of their homes."

Parents suggested a number of possible venues including the Kings Head playing fields, the old Burns swimming baths site and the old dog track. Some suggested a warden be employed to deter vandals.

Derwentside Council has been criticised in recent years for closing down a number of parks, although one so-called 'superpark' has been opened in Annfield Plain.

Leader of the council Alex Watson said the authority would be happy to talk with the group about any proposals.