A GROUP of teenagers have won a national award for their work to improve facilities for young people in their village.

Six youngsters from Brandon, near Durham City, decided to set up their own youth club last year.

Last month, they beat off competition from 42 other groups across the country to win the Royal Mail Challenge.

They received £1,000, which they can spend on the project as they choose.

Youth worker Lynn Readman said: "The original six went to the village residents' association last year because they didn't think there were enough facilities for young people.

"This led to meetings with various local councillors and volunteers and they eventually started their own youth club.

"They run it themselves and they know exactly what they want; they're brilliant."