The Ragdoll Foundation has recently awarded a grant to Lumiere organisers Artichoke to support continued engagement with local young people in the lead-up to this year's light spectacular in Durham, from November 18 to 21.

The Ragdoll Foundation previously supported Lift Off, a Lumiere community learning project inspired by the Peterlee Apollo Pavilion's 50th anniversary celebrations, working alongside Guildhall School of Music and Drama and UpNorth Group.

Founder and ceative director of Ragdoll Productions, Anne Wood said: "Artichoke’s work is beautiful, different and inspiring.

"As someone who grew up in the North-East, I was thrilled to be able to support the Lift Off learning and engagement project with young people through The Ragdoll Foundation.

"We look for innovative, high quality arts engagement projects that put the voices and views of children and young people at the centre.

"Lift Off combined participation in a high-profile arts festival with creative learning and skills transfer, which would help to encourage equality of access and greater diversity within the creative industries."