TWO North-East art galleries are celebrating after receiving a grant from the Northern Rock Foundation.

The Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (MIMA) and The Shipley Art Gallery, in Gateshead, have been jointly awarded £300,000 for a five-year collection fund.

They will use the money to build and create collections that represent the best contemporary work produced in Britain, with the emphasis on innovative design, skilful use of materials, new developments in the relevant fields, and quality of craftsmanship.

Work on MIMA is gathering pace and the money will enable it to open next year with some impressive displays.

Middlesbrough Council's director of museums and galleries Godfrey Worsdale said: "It is really valuable to the long-term development of the gallery.

"We have been looking to keep our impressive collection growing and this funding will enable us to continue doing that.

"One of the great things about this funding is that whatever we pay for pieces now will always be cheaper than in the future, so they are a great investment for future generations of the town."

Shipley's collection of contemporary craft includes more than 600 items and is nationally and internationally renowned.

Alec Coles, director of Tyne and Wear Museums, said: "We are delighted to have such good news so early in the new year.

"Continued collecting is crucial to ensure that our collections reflect the best in contemporary British craft and allows the Shipley to build its internationally renowned collection."

Leo Finn, chairman of the Northern Rock Foundation, said: "It will create a change in their acquisitions funding and will place them in an unrivalled position, regionally and nationally."