A RECREATION ground which has had a £125,000 makeover was officially opened this weekend.

Coundon and Leeholme Community Partnership and Groundwork West Durham started redeveloping Coundon recreation ground more than a year ago.

The revamp was funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

There is now a path for wheelchair and pushchair users, the play area has been overhauled and a flat area created for ball games.

Former Newcastle footballer Alan Shoulder and Wear Valley District Council leader Neil Stonehouse opened the area.

Peter Butler, of Groundwork West Durham, said: "There were a lot of people there, and jazz bands, games and a buffet. It's always been open but we wanted to officially open it and let everybody know."