TEN organisations are to share more than £1.6m from the charitable arm of a North-East bank.

The Northern Rock Foundation has distributed £7.4m among charities and projects in County Durham and Teesside so far this year.

In the latest round of donations from the foundation, Easington District Council for Voluntary Service will get £97,011 over two years to set up a volunteer bureau.

The Chapter of Durham Cathedral will receive £30,000 towards the commissioning of an original painting of St Margaret of Scotland by artist Paula Rego.

Hartlepool Citizens' Advice Bureau's £56,239 award over three years will help it support and extend its telephone advice service.

Mental health charityHartlepool Mind is getting £50,994 to support its services and therapies.

The Junction's grant of £64,526 over three years will fund information and support services for young people in Redcar and Cleveland.

East Cleveland Youth Housing Trust's £29,065 over three years will go towards providing young people with basic skills and training in construction at the training and accommodation project.