YOUNGSTERS completing their Duke of Edinburgh Award have been given a £1,000 boost by the housing developer Taylor Wimpey.

The funding was given to the Spennymoor Youth and Community Association to buy equipment for the group’s Duke of Edinburgh Award students.

Anne Hardy, a Durham County Council One Point senior youth worker, said: “I would like to thank Taylor Wimpey for their support.

“It has enabled us to buy backpacks, compasses, tents and other outdoor equipment.”

Taylor Wimpey is helping to develop the DurhamGate site, near to Spennymoor.

Joan Peart, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey North East explained: “We were extremely keen to help out.

“The work they do in the community is great and The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a fantastic initiative that teaches youngsters invaluable life lessons.”