£4m windfall for volunteer groups

The foundation receives a share of Northern Rock's profits

Volunteer groups across the North East and Cumbria are set to share a windfall of almost £4m.

The Northern Rock Foundation is handing out grants to 35 organisations to help improve quality of life in the region.

An environmental project in Bishop Auckland, an anti-hate crime scheme in Darlington and a Tyne and Wear fitness programme are among those selected.

The foundation was established in 1997 and receives 5% of Northern Rock's annual pre-tax profits.

Alastair Balls, Chairman of Northern Rock Foundation, said: "The foundation's latest awards will support high profile culture and unique heritage in our region, and help improve quality of life for its disadvantaged people and places.

"Grants will help homeless people, victims of hate crime and people with mental health problems. Crucially, these investments will help people to help themselves, by giving them the resources and support they need to improve their lives."

There will be £132,307 for Gay Advice Darlington to support lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender victims of hate crime.

Nightstop Depaul will also receive £206,489 for emergency accommodation in volunteers' homes for young people across Tyne and Wear.