A Sedgefield school has extended the range of equipment in its gym, after being awarded a community grant.

Sedgefield Community College is trying to encourage villagers to take up exercise.

Thanks to a £600 community dividend from the North Eastern Co-op, the college has just taken delivery of a new treadmill.

The college gym, which opens from 6.30am to 10pm, is used by more than 300 people each week.

The equipment is available to anyone aged 14 and over.

The Co-op's mid-Durham area committee awarded the cash grant for the project.

The committee, made up of elected members, considers applications under the community dividend scheme every two months.

Grant application forms are available from North Eastern and Cumbrian Co-op's public relations department by telephoning 0191-477 0291