VETERANS in the North-East are preparing to embark on trips to the battlefields where they served during the Second World War.

The visit, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the conflict, has been made possible through the Big Lottery Fund's Heroes Return scheme.

The scheme is urging any veterans in the region who want to apply for funding to get their applications in as soon as possible, after the deadline was extended to May 31.

A further 2,402 grants were announced today, which will enable veterans, carers, spouses, widows and widowers to see again places of particular significance to them in the 1939 to 1945 battle.

Big Lottery Fund's North-East regional officer, Emma Snowdon, said: "The 60th anniversary commemorations continue to underline how much Britain today owes to those veterans who fought in the Second World War.

"The Heroes Return scheme has proved very successful in helping veterans from the North-East to revisit places across the world which are of special importance to them.

"The closing date for applications for the scheme has been extended to the end of this month. We are confident this will give everyone who wants to apply the opportunity to do so."

To find out more, or to apply for a grant, call 0845 4102030.