AN after-school project has won almost £12,000 to transport youngsters safely to and from outlying villages.

Wheatley Hill Out of School Hours (Whoosh) Club serves local youngsters and those from Hutton Henry, Thornley, Ludworth and Wingate.

With the East Durham Rural Transport Partnership it has won funding from the Countryside Agency for three years to lay on a minibus and taxis.

Whoosh staff travel with the children to the club where the youngsters can do arts, crafts, sports, games and get a tea time snack.

Whoosh provides childcare for four to 14-year-olds from 3pm to 6pm on school days and all day during the holidays. It allows parents to take up jobs, go to college or university, knowing that their children will be picked up and transported safely.

The scheme has been running since October but it will be officially launched tomorrow.

Parent Nicola Gill said: "I am a working mum and I work nightshift. It wasn't possible for me to go to work before as I couldn't get enough sleep, but then I put Patrick into Whoosh.

"He enjoys coming and riding on the bus to the club. I think it's a really great idea and rely on it as a way of life now."

Joyce Grieves, Whoosh co-ordinator, said: "Having the children collected from schools by bus has allowed better access to the club from all the villages in the surrounding area.

"The children have made new friendships whilst having the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities."

Dan Alliband, East Durham Rural Transport Partnership Officer, said: "We have been delighted to work with Whoosh."

For details call (07813) 529506.