A CHARITY is celebrating a decade of giving financial help to community groups - with a pledge to carry on the good work.

Teesside Power Fund, based at Teesside Power Station, near Middlesbrough, has distributed £191,128 in 236 donations to worthy causes over the past ten years.

The fund now stands at more than £500,000.

Owner px limited has re-affirmed its commitment to the fund with the promise that, through the Tees Valley Community Foundation, the scheme will provide grants for local groups for many years.

The first organisation to receive a grant, Redcar and Cleveland Mind, was able to form a cabaret group to promote and explain its work to the local community.

Shirley Hart, of the group, said: "The grant and subsequent support from the fund has made a huge difference to us, helping Mind establish the firm foundations which have ensured it is still supporting local people today.''

Whale Hill Community Association is the most recent to benefit, with £2,000 for improvements to the community centre.

Its treasurer, Terry Wilberforce, said: "An access audit showed we needed ramps, tactile signage, induction loops, and an audible and visual fire alarm."

He said the grant would help it to make the improvements.

Applications are welcomed from registered charities or community groups in the wards near to the power station, including Eston, Dormanstown, Kirkleatham, Teesville, Newcomen, Coatham, Grangetown, South Bank and Normanby.

Application forms and guidelines are available from Tees Valley Community Foundation on (01642) 314200.