A PROJECT to preserve an east Durham community's rich mining history has been launched at a North-East school.

The scheme, created by the Seaham, Dawdon and Vane Tempest Banner Fund (SDVT) has been given a £49,800 Heritage Lottery grant, and aims to restore local mining banners and produce new ones.

It was launched at Ropery Walk Primary School in Seaham by County Durham's NUM president, David Guy, and will also work with six other junior schools in the town.

SDVT chairman Dr Ed Mason said: "We want the children to become involved in research of books, magazines and newspapers of the time as well as to encourage them to talk to former miners and their families."

An allotment will be used to grow traditional fruits, vegetables and flowers. The produce will be used to cook favourite recipes of pitmen's families.

Dawdon and Seaham colliery banners have already been restored and artists will help pupils produce six new banners which will be carried in Durham Miners' Gala.

The fund is also backing a mining heritage centre for the town.