CASH to help stage events in an area badly hit by foot-and-mouth disease has been sent out to 31 recipients who applied for funding.

Teesdale Marketing, a non-profit distribution company, has announced receipt of the extended funding for Events Support Grants for events and activities in the dale during 2002, which it has now paid out.

"A key aim of the project is to create the climate for improving prosperity in the dale after FMD, by increasing tourism activity", said chairman, Bill Oldfield. "Teesdale Marketing has been able to support 31 local events this season, with grants of up £1,000 each. The diversity of events supported will ensure that Teesdale remains a lively, vibrant dale for residents and a holiday destination of choice for visitors. I urge the Teesdale tourism industry to promote these events to potential visitors and capitalise on the ensuing economic opportunities."

A photographic record of the supported events will be compiled after the last event has taken place.

Funding for Teesdale Marketing's Events Support Grant has been provided by One North-East, the County Durham Foundation and Teesdale District Council.

Those receiving support are: Bowes Big Bash; Music at the Bowes Museum; the opening of Mickleton footbridge; an orchid show at Raby Castle; How Support Services - textile workshops for young people from primary and special schools and adults with special needs; Ingleton Parish Council fun day; Barnard Castle Meet; Roof of England Walks - Middleton-in-Teesdale; Rokeby and Brignall golden jubilee celebrations; Staindrop golden jubilee event; Eggleston Carnival; Tea at the Market Place - Victoria village market, Staindrop; Save the Children gardens open day, Thorpe; Cotherstone jubilee celebrations; Teesdale brass band contest; Castle Players; Flower festival - Startforth Church; Romaldkirk Fair; Bowes Museum flower festival; Newbiggin Church exhibition; Bowes Show; Eggleston Show; Meet the Middletons; Teesdale Banner Festival; Langdon Beck Show; Teesdale Music Tournament; 1st Barnard Castle Scout Group bonfire; Teesdale Record Society day at the Bowes Museum; Teesdale Lions craft fair and concert; Witham 2002 programme of events; and the Cockfield parish event (including Lynesack, Evenwood and Staindrop)