HOUSING Hartlepool has started a grants scheme to help local community and volunteer groups.

Among the first to be awarded £250 towards its running costs is Burbank Food Co-operative. It was set up 18 months ago and operates from Burbank Community House for two hours on Wednesday mornings.

Selling items such as tinned goods, coffee, potatoes and eggs that have been bought in bulk, it has plugged a social need in the community, as otherwise residents would have to pay for transport to get to the nearest supermarket.

Norma Morrish, chairwoman of the co-operative, said the area was lacking in amenities, and the venture, which runs alongside a cafe, had been set up following a survey of local people.

She said: "It is just somewhere to meet, have a good gossip and buy the necessities."

Eddie Price, Housing Hartlepool's resident participation officer, said: "Housing Hartlepool recognises and values the work of community volunteers and their organisations.

They make an essential contribution to the well-being and sustainability of their neighbourhoods and, by supporting and promoting their efforts, together we will contribute to the regeneration of the town."

The other group to receive £250 from the Kick Start Resident Involvement Grant initiative is Rossmere Residents' Association, based at the Ardrossan Court sheltered housing scheme.