Good causes share £7.5m windfall

Voluntary, community and cultural groups in the north-east of England are to share a windfall of more than £7.5m.

The Northern Rock Foundation is handing out grants to 47 local organisations.

Beneficiaries include a training and education programme for homeless people in Newcastle, and a ballet company based in the North East.

A drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre in Middlesbrough, and a project to help young people in Sunderland into employment will also benefit.

'Great effectiveness'

Cash is also being given to a scheme in Bishop Auckland that aims to tackle anti-social-behaviour by encouraging young people to take up angling.

Alastair Balls, chairman of the Northern Rock Foundation, said: "Thanks to the hard work and commitment of all those involved, the grants will make a difference to people and communities across the North East, demonstrating once again the huge breadth and great effectiveness of the voluntary sector."

The foundation was established in 1997 when Northern Rock plc converted from a mutual organisation, and receives 5% of its annual pre-tax profits.