A RUN-DOWN area in Teesside which is being rejuvenated could be in line for a grant of up to £80,000 to help open up an area of green space to the public.

The Wild about Whinney Banks project, which aims to revitalise Whinney Banks pond and surrounding green space, in Middlesbrough, has been shortlisted for the ITV Tyne Tees show the People's Contest.

The Big Lottery Fund is running the programme series from November 26 to 30, in which good causes will go head-to-head on television to secure public support.

Each night, two projects will battle it out and at the end of the week, five projects will have won a slice of a £7.8m prize.

The West Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Trust's Whinney Banks project would include access improvements, installation of artwork, habitat management and community engagement.

More than 200 children would be directly involved in educational visits, and about 4,000 local residents would benefit.

The scheme will be up against the Bandstand for Redcar project.

Organisers are battling to get a seaside bandstand on the promenade for general use by the community and musical groups.

The hope is that the bandstand, which would be based in Coatham, would be the focal point for the area and would benefit 10,000 people in a relatively deprived location.

Sir Clive Booth, chairman of the Big Lottery Fund, said: "In this third year of People's Millions, we're offering more money than was awarded in 2005 and 2006 put together.

"I'm convinced this year's award will capture the hearts of even more UK viewers."

He added: "I urge them to pick up the phone and vote for the projects they believe will make a long-lasting impact on their local communities."

Michael Grade, executive chairman of ITV, said: "This year, our ground-breaking regional news programmes will again allow the public to decide which local community project most deserves Lottery support.

"With the biggest regional awards to date up for grabs, the People's Millions is sure to have a lasting effect."

Winners will of the competition will be announced on the day following the vote.