COMMUNITY groups have been receiving gifts in times for Christmas thanks to a housing company’s fund.

The Better Homes Better Lives fund run by Dale and Valley Home has agreed grants totalling £1,300 to help local organisations pay for Christmas meals and trips to see a pantomime.

Among those benefiting are Woodhouse Close Community Centre, Willington Disabled Club and Barrington Bites Luncheon Club.

Youth clubs have also been given early Christmas presents by the fund, including a grant of £500 towards security at Auckland Youth and Community Centre and £500 for kit and equipment for St Mary’s youth football teams in Bishop Auckland.

Run by Dale and Valley Homes with contributions from Gentoo and Esh Property Services, the fund exists to make small grants which will help community projects in the Wear Valley area.

Peter Chaffer, chief executive of Dale and Valley Homes, said: “In the past we have helped toddler groups, sports clubs, social clubs and community centres.

“We deliberately keep the process simple and all we ask is that an organisation has a bank account with at least two signatories.

“We do not give grants to individuals, but clubs could always apply on behalf of a member who needed support.

“Over the years we have helped many groups on more than one occasion, but we would love to hear from new people who would like to start a new group or revitalise an existing one.”

For more information about the Better Homes, Better Lives fund contact Frances Griss on 01388-770904.