A LITTLE French style is on display at a Willington housing estate following the redevelopment of a communal garden.

The site on the town’s St Thomas Close has been transformed from a rundown area into a tranquil space for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Greater Willington Town Council ran a household survey to which residents responded to say they wanted something secure and easy to maintain.

As this is the year of the First World War centenary, town clerk Helen Cogdon suggested a French theme, an idea supported by Durham County Council.

The work - reflecting the style of a French formal garden - was funded by Durham County Council’s neighbourhood services, Durham county councillor Joe Buckham’s members initiative fund and Greater Willington Town Council.

Cllr Buckham said: “I was keen to support the Town Council in its ambition to improve this site.

“The area had been neglected and misused and it is now a pleasant space for St Thomas residents to enjoy.”

Town mayor, Cllr Fraser Tinsley, added: “We thank residents for their involvement, it’s a great example of how partnership working can create something different and we are very pleased with the end result.”

Old paving flags from the site have been recycled by Rosedale and Victoria Allotment Association.