A NEW trustee of an organisation with provides grants to local people and communities has seen first-hand the difference the money can make.

Colin Fyfe, chief executive of Darlington Building Society, who recently became a trustee of County Durham Community Foundation, paid a visit to Cafe JJ to speak to staff.

The group, based at St Columba's Church, Darlington, received a grant of £2,500 from the foundation to help cover the annual rent costs.

The project, now in its eighth year, provides an opportunity for families and older people to get together in a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere and enjoy affordable hot food.

The café has a reputation for delicious home-cooked main courses and desserts at reasonable prices.

The team consists of twelve learning disabled adults, who spend Mondays and Tuesdays preparing meals for their customers and deliveries on a Wednesday.

Every year the number of customers coming into the café increases. This year, on occasions, they have seen 85 customers coming in for lunch between 11am and 1.30pm.

Colin Fyfe from Darlington Building Society said: “Going to work should be enjoyable - just like going for a coffee or a bite to eat. That enjoyment was clearly evident at Café JJ when I visited.

"It is a pleasure to support an initiative which is obviously making an impact."