A YOUTH group specialising in creative arts has been awarded a £500 community grant.

The money from the North Eastern and Cumbrian Co-op's community dividend scheme is in support of Willington-based Natural High.

The group, which was formed in 1999, meets weekly at the local Methodist church for dance, singing and drama lessons. Natural High has also staged several community concerts. The award will go towards buying backing CDs, new stage curtains and lighting.

The Co-op's grant scheme provides support for community projects. In 2003 just under £150,000 was donated to organisations in the region.