FIVE community projects have received awards.

Durham and Chester-le-Street Primary Care Trust presented Community Health Awards at a ceremony at County Durham Cricket Club, in Chester-le-Street.

Joint winners were Durham Stroke Club and Chester-le-Street and District Surgery Transport Scheme.

The stroke club, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary and is run by 12 volunteers, organises activities for its members, such as chair exercises and excursions.

Set up a year ago, the transport scheme was established in response to difficulties faced by people in Sacriston, Pelton and Pelton Fell in getting to GP surgeries on public transport.

It is run by a volunteer co-ordinator and several trained, volunteer drivers.

Pelton Community Centre and Waterhouses Community Association were awarded certificates for promoting community health, along with the Great Lumley Friday for the Housebound Club.

The awards were made during a conference on the primary care trust's commitment to working with the public.