A LOCAL advice centre has been given a £1,000 grant to improve its facilities.

Shiney Advice and Resource Project (ShARP) has been awarded the money through the North Eastern and Cumbrian Co-op's Community Dividend scheme.

The cash will be used to update facilities at the centre in Beatrice Terrace, Houghton-le-Spring.

Work will include new meeting and training rooms, improving IT facilities and renovating the reception area.

Project co-ordinator Alan MacKay said: "The aim of the alterations is to enable us to best serve the needs of the community and this grant will be a big help in getting the work started."