COMMUNITY groups in former coalfield areas of the North-East have been invited to apply for a share of a £45m funding package.

The invitation was made by regeneration minister Lord Falconer as he unveiled new guidelines and priorities for managing the cash injection.

Lord Falconer said the latest funding from the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions would enable the Coalfields Regeneration Trust to continue its work in the country's most hard-pressed areas.

He said: "The funding recognises the trust's key role in regenerating the coalfield, tackling the problems of poverty, debt and social exclusion and bringing life back into their communities.

"I hope that former coalfield areas across the country will take up the opportunities provided by this funding to develop projects to tackle these serious issues.

"Projects like those in Derwentside and Easington, in County Durham, can make a real difference in turning around people's lives."

More than 600 projects supporting coalfield communities across the country have already got funding from the trust.

In Easington, nearly £200,000 helped Murton Welfare Association to complete the second phase of a community resource centre, including additional building works to the gym, fitness room and main hall.

In Derwentside, the Special Needs Unity Group (Snug) offers people with learning disabilities, working alongside other members of the community, the opportunity to undertake accredited training, both college based and on supported work placement.

The trust funded £60,000 towards the salary costs of a development coordinator and administrative support.