RESIDENTS of a Newton estate have offered overwhelming support to a long-running campaign for a community centre in the area.

People living on the Fairbrother estate have been pushing for a centre for more than 10 years but so far nothing has materialised.

Fairbrother Estate Tenants and Residents Association (FETRA) has been working with the Pathways group to try and secure funding for the project.

But two bids to the National Lottery have been rejected on 'technical grounds'.

Now the results of a new survey, conducted among residents have been revealed.

And with 115 out of 116 returned questionnaires giving the thumbs up to the project, organisers are deeming it an excellent response.

The questionnaire showed great support in particular for courses to be held at the proposed centre, including computer sessions.

People felt the centre could be used for leisure facilities, as well as a base to meet with councillors and police representatives.

And 22 residents said that they would consider becoming a part time volunteer.

Alex Whamond, FETRA spokesman, said: "This is excellent news for us.

"The questionnaire has shown us what the people are really thinking and proves that there is a need for the centre.

"Other areas have community centres but we have nothing like that here.

"It would get people out of their houses, giving them a chance to meet new people and get training and further education, which leads to opportunities.

He believes that it "would lift their own value up."

There is at present the possibility of a feasibility study being carried out in the area by the borough council.

The residents' association is hoping that this will back up the work it has already done and go into further details of business and planning to allow it to present a more successful bid to a funder at a later date.

Mr Whamond added: "We are hoping to work with the Belvedere and Fairbrother Estate Tenants and Residents Association to bring this centre to fruition for the good of the people."