A CHARITY supporting North-East veterans is moving forward with plans to safeguard its future.

County Durham-based Finchale Group, which provides support to people trying to get back into work, has announced plans to move its headquarters to Belmont, in Durham city.

It will be moving from Finchale Training College, in Pity Me, later this year.

Mel Pears, chief executive said: “Finchale Group is stronger than ever thanks to our relocation and repositioning.

“With this foundation we’re now ready to reach more people across the North-East – delivering one-to-one support in their homes and communities.”

The move will mean the company can knock down the college, which doubled as the 1970s police station for BBC TV show Inspector George Gently, to make way for housing.

Last year, the charity was given permission to build 93 houses on the land.

At the time, Finchale said it would run out of funds by 2018 because its revenue had reduced from £4m to £1m in four years.

Construction is currently underway of the new headquarters at Belmont Industrial Estate, which will be named Richard Annand VC House, after the Second World War hero awarded the Victoria Cross in May 1940.

Mr Pears said: ““Our team is building on more than 75 years of expertise by developing new ways to help people, and their families, who are facing a complex mix of issues.

“We’re implementing new services to support people who have served in our armed forces and their dependants, ex-offenders and other disadvantaged groups.”

He added: “We’re incredibly proud of the work we do for people in the North East and now our ambition is to expand that work even further.”

Finchale works offers tailored support to people dealing with a range of issues, including debt, addiction and poor mental health.

The build will be overseen by property developers Mandale Group.

Estates director Joe Darragh said: “Mandale is incredibly proud to be part of this hugely significant project. Richard Annand VC House will be a truly first class facility for those who most need and deserve support.”