Darlington councillors are to consider seven applications for grants from the authority's community leisure chest.

The fund has a budget of £4,500 for 2000-2001, and about £1,000 is left.

A number of sport and social clubs have applied for cash to help to buy equipment.

The applications will be considered at a meeting of the council's cabinet tomorrow.

These include the Eastbourne Eagles, a junior American football team at the Eastbourne sports complex, which wants £150 for equipment.

The Darlington Association on Disability has also applied for £100 towards a sponsored swim planned at the town's Dolphin centre.

The money is needed to pay for certificates and T-shirts for those taking part in the event.