More than 100 youngsters will be able to take part in a 10 week programme of football activities with funding from their local area action partnership.
Coaches and league games for children aged five to 16 are held in Hackwork Park on Saturday mornings as part of Shildon Junior League.
“This funding has enabled the young people to be part of a team, gain valuable experience in sport along with the physical benefits, but most of all have a fun time with their families,” explained Elaine Jennings from Shildon Junior Football League.
“The league is extremely grateful to receive this funding, without which the activity could not be run.”
A total of £3,500 in funding came from the AAP, along with councillors David Hancock and Garry Huntington from the small grants fund and neighbourhood budget.
More information on the league, including how to get involved, can be obtained from Elaine Jennings on 07854 814546.
‘At the heart of the community’
A local group supporting members who have suffered heart failure and their carers has been provided with nearly £7,000 by local councilors.
The Bishop Healthy Heart-Beat group were looking to take on a tai chi instructor and aroma therapist to support their 28 members.
Meeting every Tuesday at Henknowle Community Association Centre, members of the group set up the project having attended sessions run by Butterwick Hospice in Bishop Auckland.
Secretary of the support group, Audrey Hughes, said “The members are thrilled to receive this generous funding from Cllrs Lee and Lethbridge.
“The cash needed to fund the aromatherapy and tai chi sessions would normally drain our resources.”
The activities are key to keeping fit, and aromatherapy helps to ‘de-stress’. A therapist will be able to visit the group every week for two years.
For further information on the group contact Audrey Hughes on 01388 815041.