COMMUNITY groups in run-down areas are being urged to tap into a fund to help them get projects off the ground.

The Community Project Development Fund provides support for schemes that improve local people's quality of life.

The fund, financed through the Government's Single Regeneration Budget (SRB), will provide funding towards development costs.

A pilot fund last year distributed more than £160,000 to 35 projects across County Durham. The success of the pilot has led to the fund receiving about £170,000 a year for the next three years.

"The fund is primarily targeted at disadvantaged areas of the county and SRB target areas," said Bob Ward, head of regeneration at Durham County Council, which administers the fund.

Those eligible to apply include community, voluntary faith or charity groups.

Organisations wishing to apply can contact Durham County Council's Community Project Development Fund officer on 0191-383 3131, or apply on-line at www.iricd.co.uk.