MEMBERS of a local Scout group are enjoying the great outdoors again, thanks to a cash grant from a building society.

The 1st Kirklevington Scout group, near Yarm, received £360 from Newcastle Building Society to help buy new camping and outdoors equipment.

The equipment has helped the group's over-14s to develop exploring skills, enabling them to take part in a range of activities.

The Scout group has 64 members, aged between six and 20. Colin Forth, Scout group chairman, said: "Our equipment was suffering from severe wear and tear, so we were delighted to receive the donation from Newcastle Building Society."

The cash came from the society's community fund, which makes donations to grassroots projects. Each year it gives away £60,000.

Anyone who would like to apply for a donation should contact the Community Foundation on 0191-222 0945