Linda Bell, a 51-year-old grandmother, part-time farmer and member of the Loftus Business Group, is to chair the Loftus Priority Group which is responsible for overseeing the six-figure Single Regeneration Budget programme for isolated east Cleveland villages.

The programme will include ten projects ranging from environmental improvements to Skinningrove Beck to education and training projects. It will also include the formation of an allotments co-operative at Liverton Mines and providing improved access at Loftus Town Hall.

Mrs Bell said: "I'm hoping that this money will bring out the natural ability of the people in this area. I'm also thrilled that it is getting a lot of the communities to work together.'