A LEADING light in a Durham housing estate's regeneration scheme has died.

Harry Appleby, chairman of the Sherburn Road Community Action Partnership and chairman of the Three Rivers Housing Estate's residents group, died at home, aged 69.

Ernest Dobson, director of the Sherburn Road Regeneration Initiative, which has ploughed millions of pounds into revamping the once run-down area, paid tribute to Mr Appleby's work.

He said Mr Appleby "put in a daily effort and worked tirelessly" with community groups involved in the scheme.

"Harry will be sadly missed. He was a familiar figure at community meetings and made a huge contribution to the area and its people.

"Earlier this year he played a major role in plans for the showpiece Pelaw View Centre which is now up and running and used by all sections of the community.''

Mr Appleby leaves his wife Jean, grown-up children Harry, Alan and Linda, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.