AN annual appeal to raise funds for the Salvation Army's homeless and community programmes was launched at the weekend.

Among those helping to launch the appeal, at Darlington's Cornmill Shopping Centre, was football fan Terry Soley.

The 42-year-old, who was recently noted to have worn out six sets of tyres on his wheelchair thanks to his devotion to Darlington FC, is a former resident of the Salvation Army's Tom Raine Court residential centre.

He expressed his gratitude for the help he received from the centre, now an established service provider across County Durham and Teesside, by attending Saturday's launch.

Geoff Platt, divisional director for public relations at the Salvation Army, said: "Accommodation is provided for 34 residents. There are also four resettlement flats and a half-way house.

"The budget to run the Darlington Centre costs almost half a million pounds."

Last year, the services struggled because of financial problems, but it is now hoped the generosity of people in the area can help to continue the financial work of the movement.