IT began when a group of parents banded together -sick of the problems on their estate caused by drink and drugs.

Three years on and residents are celebrating the official opening of a community house they hope will make a major difference to their lives.

The six-bedroomed Lilac House, on the Holly Crescent Estate, Sacriston, will provide a range of services for young and old.

The house is base to the Lilac House Tenant and Resident Association, a group of residents who got together to find solutions to the estate's problems.

The group has teamed up with agencies such as the police and district council, who will hold surgeries there.

The community house will also provide a meeting place for youngsters and will host courses.

Janette Loan, chairwoman of the residents' association, said: "It is an exciting development.

"A few years ago, a group of parents concerned with alcohol and drug problems on the estate got together and decided to do something about it.

"We asked the council if we could have a house for the kids to go to, to keep them occupied with activities, when this house became vacant.

"The idea has grown and it is available not only for the children, but for the whole community."

Chester-le-Street District Council agreed at the end of 2004 to lease the house to the group for free. Since then it, has undergone extensive repairs.

The house has a snooker table, DJ room and kitchen, and funding has been secured for a computer suite

Council leader Linda Ebbatson said: "First and foremost, the credit for this initiative must go to the people who live here and led the way.

"However, I would like people to know that the council places a high premium on, and is very supportive of, community-led initiatives such as we see here."

The association works closely with Christine Blakey, from Chester-le-Street's Council for Voluntary Service, and Allyson Holmes, of the district council, to secure funding. Other organisations involved in the project include the fire brigade, Durham Agency Against Crime, Storey Carpets and Family Support.

The National Probation Service played a major part in the refurbishment, thanks to offenders who were ordered to carry out unpaid work in the community by judges and magistrates.

The official opening was performed by Paul "Goffy" Gough, of Metro Radio.