A North-East health project is to receive almost £1m from the National Lottery's New Opportunities Fund.

Easington Primary Care Group's Health for All scheme is one of 11 across the UK to receive a share of £8,330,941.

The funding is to address health inequalities in deprived communities, such as Easington.

East Durham's project is being led by Easington Primary Care Group in partnership with other organisations, including the Countryside Agency and the Health Improvement Group for Easington.

The scheme will address levels of ill health which are made worse by a lack of transport and childcare facilities.

The health problems in the Easington district have been linked with high levels of deprivation, poor educational attainment and the demise of the mining industry.

Stephen Dunmore, chief executive of the New Opportunities Fund, said last night: "The Easington project will provide a range of new, health-related activities, which will empower people to lead a healthier life and offer valuable support at times of difficulty.

"This innovative scheme will not only boost health but will provide the impetus for the developing community support across the dis- trict, which should set the project in good stead for the future."

According to the national 2000 Index of Deprivation, Easington ranks in sixth place.

Mortality rates from coronary heart disease and stroke are 40 per cent higher than the rest of the country.

It is expected that about 95,000 people in east Durham will benefit from the project with emphasis on the young, old, unemployed, disabled and those on low incomes.

The project will also train members of the local community in computer skills to help produce Health for All Literature and a website.

Dr Roger Bolas, chief executive of the Easington Primary Care Group, said: "This presents us with an opportunity to really improve health in the district.

"We look forward to working with local people to make the project a success."