COMMUNITY groups across County Durham are celebrating windfalls after scooping a share of the National Lottery.

More than £31,000 will be donated to groups in the south of the county through the Lottery's Awards for All scheme.

Among those to gain from the grants were Eden Residents' Association and Kirk Merrington Community Association, both in the Spennymoor area.

Eden Residents' Association was formed a year ago to clean up drugs and vandalism blackspots and foster a sense of pride and stronger community spirit.

It was awarded £5,000 towards its main project, the creation of a community garden on two overgrown plots at Timothy Terrace Allotments.

Kirk Merrington Community Association, which runs the village's community centre, has been handed £3,750 to complete its £6,000 fund-raising target to install dividing doors in the main hall.

Trimdon Colliery Homing Society, which promotes and takes part in pigeon racing, was awarded £4,110 to upgrade its headquarters and to buy equipment for new members.

The recently formed Newton Aycliffe Mobility Club, which provides support for people with mobility problems and their families, was granted £5,000 so members can enjoy outings.

Shildon Town Council received £850 towards a community Christmas fair, which will include workshops in local schools to make banners and costumes for the event.

The fair will be held at St John's Church on December 5, the same day as a procession through the town and the switching on of festive lights.

Meanwhile, a grant of £4,884 will help Tees Valley Cougars Cheerleaders buy equipment and run courses for people from the Sedgefield and Wear Valley area to take part in cheerleading and form a squad.

In Teesdale, three groups have been awarded money.

The Barnard Castle Mechanics' Institute and Witham Hall Community Association was given £4,885 to upgrade the building so it is more attractive and comfortable for users.

Youngsters will benefit from sport equipment, including portable nets, thanks to a £2,218 grant made to Barningham Cricket Club, and Butterknowle 50 Plus Club was given £500 to fund speakers and demonstrations.