THOUSANDS of pounds of lottery funding has been given to sporting and community organisations in Darlington by Awards For All.

The Cockerton area fared particularly well and netted a total of £11,666.

Cockerton and Branksome Living Enterprise was given £5,000 towards its one-stop shop advice and resource centre. It will use the money to help the community with project planning and setting up computer, numeracy and literacy training courses to regenerate the area.

Cockerton Family Theatre Company received £3,222 to buy sound and lighting equipment for its drama and musical performances. It also provides the opportunity for people to become involved in backstage work.

The sum of £3,444 has gone to Cockerton Residents' Community Association to improve facilities at the community hall.

South Park Veterans' Bowling Club received £1,044 to buy equipment for all its players, including those who are disabled.

Rise Carr Primary School will use its £2,506 to allow its after-school club to include a keep fit club, tag rugby and netball in its activities.

St Teresa's RC Primary School will also introduce new sporting activities in its extra-curricular activities. A £4,710 award will pay for coaching fees, attendance at national governing body awards and equipment.

Darlington Table Tennis Club will spend its £4,820 developing the sport at all levels in the area. It intends to buy equipment to start extra coaching sessions at two new venues.

Haughton Cricket Club wants to develop players under the age of 13 and will use its £4,006 towards the start-up costs for two teams - including coaching, equipment and the cost of staging a tournament.

l Darlington Mowden Park Rugby Club has been awarded £4,449 to bridge the gap between mixed mini rugby and women's rugby, targeting 12- to 16-year-olds.

The team was set up last autumn and has flourished with a strong squad of keen and enthusiastic girls, coached by Debbie Wanless and Julie Gardiner.

Anita Blackburn, girls' team secretary, said: "We've had to beg, steal or borrow kit from other sections of the club. Everyone's been very helpful but it's great to be able to get our own kit and equipment.

"It's a real boost to us all and will ensure the continued success of the girls. Girls' rugby is a great way for girls to develop life skills - fitness, team-building, social and communication skills - as well as having fun and playing rugby for a highly successful club."

The under-16s' team trains every Thursday from 6-8pm at the club in Yiewsley Drive