A YOUTH club started by a village police officer has been awarded £4,264 in National Lottery cash.

The Manor Park youth club, at Lanchester, will buy gym equipment and a sound system with the windfall.

Youngsters worked with PC Mel Armstrong to set up the club about 18 months ago.

"It all started when I used to meet some of the young ones congregating outside the Spar shop," said PC Armstrong.

"It emerged they wanted something to do. We got use of the hall for a youth club, and now we get more than 40 coming along two nights a week."

PC Armstrong has also been helping young bike fanatics.

They used to annoy residents, but now perform bike tricks at displays. Anyone wanting to hire the group is asked to call (01207) 521290.