THE last chapter in the 54-year history of one of the region's most famous clubs has brought a £27,600 windfall for good causes in the area.

The winding up of the Wilton Castle Club, which was formerly the social centre for ICI on Teesside, led to a £38 bonus for all 2,500 members after the club's assets were sorted out and dispersed.

But instead of spending the money on themselves, many generous members opted to donate the cash to a special charities fund.

As a result, six local charities nominated by members have each benefited by £4,600.

John Kay, chairman of the Wilton Castle Club since 1989, handed over the cheques at a special gathering in Billingham. He said: "It is the end of an era for the club and its members but we were delighted to be able to end this way - by giving something back to the Teesside community."

The charities to benefit are Teesside Hospice, the Holistic Cancer Care Project at South Cleveland Hospital, The Teesside Samaritans, The Ann Charlton Lodge for multiple sclerosis sufferers, the Coatham House project for homeless young people in east Cleveland and Botton Village, a residential community for people with special needs near Danby

The club was founded by ICI employees in 1946 and played an important part in the social and business activities of ICI on Teesside.

It offered a variety of sporting and social activities designed to cater for the widely different interests of members and their guests.

The castle has now been sold to Wimpey Homes and will be developed into an executive housing estate.

A book commemorating the history of the club has been written by Honorary Secretary Dennis Claridge. "Memories - Wilton Castle 1946 -2000" costs £9.95. It features hilarious reminiscences of members and although every member has been given a copy of the book, it is also available at Guisborough and Yarm bookshops and at Sotheran's in Redcar, priced £9.95.