LOCAL authorities in the region are being asked to significantly increase contributions to Beamish Museum.

The governing committee overseeing the museum, which recently agreed to increase admission charges for the coming year, is asking eight of the region's councils for £193,900 towards its £3.5m annual running costs.

Most requests are broadly in line with an inflationary rise on the authorities' contributions last year, but Darlington, North Tyneside and Northumberland councils will be asked for a significantly larger donation due to a shortfall in the amount they handed over last year.

In 2004/05, Beamish asked Darlington to give more than £9,300, but actually received a little less than £3,300. The museum committee is this year asking for just under £9,600.

Similarly, Northumberland County Council will be asked for £30,200, compared to the £20,800 it donated last year and North Tyneside will be asked for £18,600, compared to £1,300 it paid in 2004.

A report by museum director Miriam Harte and joint committee treasurer, Keith Beardmore, states it is uncertain what the consequences would be if the councils fail to meet their full contributions.

The budget will be discussed at County Hall, Durham, this Friday.