A CHARITY has handed an advice service a funding lifeline.

The future of Durham Citizens' Advice Bureau (CAB) had been in doubt unless it secured more funding to meet rising accommodation costs following its move to new premises in the Durham City Council-owned Millennium Place.

But Christ's Hospital, in Sherburn, which runs an old people's home and gives money to good causes, has given the CAB a £15,000 grant.

The bureau's manager, Colin Thompson, said: "This grant is a real lifesaver for the bureau.

"The bureau would have either closed, or drastically reduced the service it offers, within the next year.

"This grant will allow us to continue the improvements we have made in the service since we moved to Millennium Place.

"It will also allow us time to work with other funders to create financial stability, ensuring the future of the bureau."

The bureau was previously based at Ruth First House, the city council's former planning offices in Claypath, but had to move when the building was sold.

The CAB provides free advice on issues ranging from consumer problems to benefit wrangles. Last year, it helped almost 10,000 people, many of whom would have been unable to afford to see a solicitor.

The bureau, which operates with a large number of volunteers, has received funding from Christ's Hospital before, but the bulk of its money comes in an annual grant from Durham City Council.