A GRANT of £55,000 to set up community recycling schemes across Sedgefield was announced yesterday.

The money, from the Department of Food and Rural Affairs Waste Minimisation and Recycling Fund, will pay for an officer to work with community groups.

The borough council will run the project in partnership with environmental experts Groundwork East Durham and consultants Community Recycling Services.

As well as offering support and advice, they will provide training to help groups around the borough start their own waste reduction and recycling projects.

Oliver Priestley-Leach, the council's waste management officer, said: "We are looking to support community projects of all sizes from a residents' association producing a local recycling guide, to a scout group holding a waste swap day, to a new group running a recycling service."

Michael Hurlow, Groundwork's project manager, said: "The project is an excellent example of the community and public sector working together.

"We are looking forward to hearing from any interested groups as this is a special opportunity to provide some quality support and set up some exciting projects."

Groups interested in taking part should call (01388) 816166.