A group of people living near a “dangerous” alley have raised £2,100 to resurface the alley.

Residents of Far Cotton, Northampton, began a Fundraising campaign last year to repair a dilapidated path between Gloucester Avenue and Friars Crescent.

West Northamptonshire Council said the lane was an unauthorised route and that it would not repair it.

Chris Antoniou, 85, led the initiative and said “nobody believed” he could do the job.

Several “serious accidents” had occurred on the road, the asphalt of which had previously shown deep cracks, especially at night.

Mr Antoniou was told that it would cost £3,000 to repair the surface and a further £100 to supply the materials.

The official reopening ceremony of the alley included a ceremonial opening event attended by numerous local residents.

Mr Antoniou expressed his relief that his neighbours could walk safely through the newly paved alley. “I am very happy,” he said.

Julie Davenport, councillor for Delapre and Rushmere on West Northamptonshire Council, who attended the ceremony, said: “It’s incredible how determined (Chris) was to get it done. And he did it.”

Another resident, Tony Bloor, walking through the alley to pick up a daily newspaper, said: “It’s absolutely great, it’s much safer now.”

“What Chris has done is absolutely amazing.”

Mr Antoniou added: “(Far Cotton) will remember me (for the repairs) when I am no longer there!”