Their stories, told in photographs, are now on show in the Fusion gallery at the Customs House in South Shields.

The first-hand look at life in the town's Rekendyke ward has spawned a film and report, as well as the exhibition, due to be launched today.

Fourteen residents have spent the last two years using photography to tell their families' stories about regeneration as part of a project called Images for Change.

Church Action on Poverty North East has worked with communities along the Tyne, including Meadow Well, Teams, Walker, Benwell and Scotswood to show what they think is good about where they live and also any issues that they struggle with.

Rekendyke project co-ordinator Bernadette Askins said: "While working with the communities for Images for Change, a shared story emerged, and we worked to identify key themes within that story.

"The themes are jobs and training, young people, housing, community spirit and people power.

"While some of these images show the negative impact of regeneration, there is also still a great sense of hope and optimism and a celebration of the life of the communities.

"Local politicians should come to see this Tyneside community voice."

The exhibition, which will run until Friday, October 31, is supported by the Rekendyke Partnership and Churches Together in South Tyneside, with funding from Awards For All.