A CUSTOMER at a Darlington building society has helped the Great North Air Ambulance Service secure a funding boost.

The life-saving charity is stocking up on medical essentials after receiving a £2,000 grant from the Darlington branch of the Newcastle Building Society (NBS).

Customer Laura Simpson – also the charity’s public liaison officer - highlighted GNAAS’ vital work around the region as she nominated the service for a cash reward from the building society’s Community Foundation, set up to provide grants to charities and community groups nominated by NBS customers.

GNAAS, which is funded entirely through donations, is using its grant to buy new consumables, including defibrillator pads, carbon dioxide monitoring cables blood pressure cuffs, electrodes and printer roll. The charity’s chief executive, Grahame Pickering MBE said his team were hugely thankful for the generous support.

Gemma Manson, manager at NBS’ Darlington branch, said: “We're proud to be supporting a charity that makes a difference to hundreds of families every year."

To nominate a good cause for a grant of up to £3,000, visit newcastle.co.uk.