YOUNGSTERS in a former pit village are enjoying a new BMX and skate park.

The facility at Hamsterley Colliery, near Consett, was created on waste land near the village’s community centre for £48,000.

Consultation by Groundwork North East found that young people felt there were few facilities for them in the village.

The project was delivered by Groundwork North East, with funding from the Big Lottery’s Community Spaces programme, Hamsterley Community Association and local Durham County councillors, Alan Shield and Watts Stelling.

The Big Tree Plant provided funding for tree planting around the site to create a ‘buffer zone’ and wildlife area.

The launch event on Saturday (May 18) included an official ribbon-cutting by Coun Shield, demonstrations by BMX, skate and scooter professionals and children's craft activities.