A SOCIAL group has received £1,000 to enable members to have a day out thanks to a former builder’s retirement fund.

Selby Close Social Club, in St Helen Auckland, was presented with the money from the Scotto Charitable Trust by Bishop Auckland and Shildon AAP today (Tuesday).

The funding will pay for outings throughout next year and also a Christmas party for the group, which is aimed at older members.

The trust, which is based in Jersey, was founded by Frank Scotto and his wife, Phyllis, when he sold his building supplies company in 1973.

The couple retired to the Channel Islands after spending most of their lives in Witton Park.

Mr Scotto died in 1989, and his wife died the following year.

The trust's aim is to provide funds to groups that put on activities for vulnerable members of society, such as young children or the elderly.

Councillor Christine Wilson, who runs the group, said: “All the money will go on opportunities for the members so it will really make a difference.”

The group, which has about 20 members, meets at the St Helen’s Parish Centre, Middlewood Green, at 10am every Tuesday for bingo, a chat and refreshments.