Voluntary groups in the North-East are being given the chance to set up their own web sites as part of a scheme being launched tomorrow by The Northern Echo.

One of the first to benefit under the CommuniGate scheme, will be "One Voice Network" - the umbrella organisation for the voluntary sector in the local community.

Based at Wheatley Hill in Durham, OVN aims to improve grass roots communication, raise awareness of common concerns and interests and promote the practical benefits of working together by sharing skills and experience.

"We already have an extensive website, which serves as an information resource, a helpful resources fact-finder and a vehicle for promoting the excellent work carried out by local communities and community groups," said Gary Finnegan, Communication and Support Officer for the project.

"Now we are linked into CommuniGate, we have a second access portal which should help us to contact a wider audience and improve our site visibility throughout the north east region.

Alison Nicholson, the Community Web Editor in charge of the new project added that there had already been considerable interest from organisations in the region.

"A wide range of different groups have already made contact and are keen to take advantage of the benefits of a free community website. We will give them all the practical help they need to build a site and come on board as quickly as possible."

If you are part of a non-profit making organisation and would like to join the CommuniGate scheme, visit www.thisisthenortheast.co.uk and click through to CommuniGate or contact the Community Web Editor. Tel: 01325 381313 email: community@nen.co.uk