Horden couple in fight to save dozens of derelict homes

A retired couple are planning to take over dozens of homes in County Durham which have fallen into disrepair.

John and Pat Barnett want to renovate 130 derelict homes in Horden Colliery, which fell into ruin when the mines closed.

Mr Barnett said the empty properties, which were managed by Accent housing association, have become "very unhealthy" and are an "unpleasant place to live".

The couple are planning to form their own community housing association to take over the running of the homes.