IMPROVED transport links for community groups are now firmly on the timetable, thanks to a £70,000 windfall.

Peterlee-based East Durham Community Transport has been awarded the funding, which will be spent on a new 17-seater adapted bus.

The registered charity operates a fleet of minibuses from its offices in Cook Way, on Peterlee's North-West Industrial Estate, and the new vehicle promises to enhance services to people living in outlying villages.

The funding has been donated by the East Durham Community Resource Fund, which is managed by the East Durham Trust.

The grant is part of an £800,000 allocation which has been made available from Neighbourhood Renewal Funding and East Durham Local Strategic Partnership, to support the area's service providers within the voluntary and community sector

The manager of East Durham Community Transport, Liam Weatherill, this week welcomed the opportunity of extending the vital service and said: "This vehicle will be a great asset to our fleet and the people of East Durham.''

The low-floor Bluebird Auriga coach has front kneeling suspension, which drops down to kerb level, allowing passengers to walk on and off with ease.

The mini-bus will also be fitted with a ramp, to enable wheelchair users to get on and off quickly and safely.

Mr Weatherill said: "The vehicle is available for hire, with a driver, for the benefit of local groups and projects and, more specifically, for groups that have members with mobility problems.

Malcolm Fallow, chief executive of the East Durham Trust, said: "This is an excellent use of an award from the Community Resource Fund.

"East Durham Trust is happy to support this and similar projects that look to regenerate the district through the activities of the voluntary and community sector.''

To find out more about booking, contact Angela Kent, on 0191-518-2633.