Closure-threatened Easington Colliery Methodist Church is now said to be a "thriving" community hub.

Residents describe the "might of the state" against one pit village during the miners' strike.

While miners manned picket lines 40 years ago, women provided strength and support behind the scenes.

The town's Methodist church had a leaking roof, problems with damp and in need of modernisation.

Affectionately known as "The Welly" the centre remains at the heart of the former mining town.

The north-east of England has some of the worst access to cheap and healthy food, researchers say.

The relay is part of efforts to restore services hit by the Bilsdale mast fire.

A banner celebrating the women of County Durham has been created to be paraded at the miners' gala.