THE terraced streets of a County Durham pit village may seem an unlikely tourist attraction, but that is exactly what they could be thanks to a new blockbuster film.

Easington does not appear in tourist guides, and day trippers are rare, but locals hope that the movie, Billy Elliot, will change all that.

The drama, set in the village during the 1984 miners' strike, has won critical acclaim and has been tipped for an Oscar.

Easington District Council tourism officer Karen Herring said: "The film is proving very popular and we hope that it will increase interest in the area."

Deputy council leader Robin Todd said: "I expect it will bring tourists, and why not?

"People normally like to look into the background of popular films and find out the real stories. It would be excellent if they do come.

"It is good that the rest of the world is reminded of the miners' strike - it's sometimes too easy to forget.

"It was a hard time, but it also revived feelings of strength in the community and friendliness."

Easington does not have any restaurants or a cinema, but residents hope that could change will the success of Billy Elliot