A LOCAL charity scaled new heights yesterday to celebrate a £30,000 grant.

The Pioneering Care Partnership received the money from Lloyds TSB Foundation to support the Options Disability Initiative in Newton Aycliffe for three years.

Members celebrated by rock climbing at Aycliffe Leisure Centre, with Carol Gatemby, branch manager at Lloyds TSB in Spennymoor, supported by instructors from Rock Antics Ltd.

The Options Disability Initiative provides a variety of social and educational opportunities for 18 disabled people, aged 18 to 55, on three days a week.

The co-ordinator recruits volunteers who offer support to younger disabled adults, enabling them to develop their skills and confidence while taking part in activities including indoor rock climbing, drama, information technology, arts and crafts workshops.

The partnership improves their quality of life by providing educational and leisure opportunities, and also runs a centre for the independent living project for disabled people.

Paul Coates, a member of Options, has overcome his fear of heights by using the climbing wall.

"Climbing has given me a new interest and has shown me that my disability should not stop me from trying new things," he said.

Graham Barker, Options project co-ordinator at the Pioneering Care Partnership, said: "We are delighted with the donation from the Lloyds TSB Foundation, which will help us to maintain a consistent level of service for members of the Options Disability Initiative over the next three years."

Ms Gatemby said: "Pioneering Care Partnership encourages local disabled people to become socially active and to take part in everyday leisure activities.

"The Lloyds TSB Foundation and Pioneering Care Partnership share a common commitment - to create positive opportunities for disabled people.