TIME is running out for people in a south Durham market town to apply to claim grant aid for buildings improvements.

There are only three months left to access funds for Wolsingham's Heritage Economic Regeneration Scheme, which aims to restore traditional features in the Weardale community.

Durham County Council is urging owners who want to carry out property improvements to apply for grants as soon as possible as all bids must be submitted and approved by March 31.

Money is available for structural repairs such as stonework and roofing, reinstatement of traditional features such as windows and doors and shop fronts.

Chris Tunstall, director of environment and technical services, said: "We have already grant aided nine commercial properties so far and the work has made quite an impact on the image of the conservation area and Market Place.

"We've also been working with other property owners to identify further improvements and we'd urge them to apply before time runs out.

"We'd like other residential properties in the Market Place and part of Front Street to consider applying for the grant."

In the past three years English Heritage has given £300,000 towards buildings and environmental improvements, which has been matched by the County Council, Wear Valley District Council, County Durham Environmental Trust and One NorthEast.

To apply, contact the county council on 0191-383 4104 or the district council's planning department on (01388) 765555.