A GROUP of pub regulars dedicated to fundraising have been awarded a millennium National Lottery grant.

Anchor Aid, set up in 1986, operates from the Anchor inn, in Guisborough.

It was established to provide support for the sick, elderly and disabled in the area, as well as raising money for hospitals, care homes, community causes and the emergency services in east Cleveland.

The charity raises money by holding festivals, barn dances and other community events, which have so far generated more than £55,000.

Anchor Aid has just been awarded £5,000 from the Millennium Festival Awards, via the National Lottery Charities Board.

The award will be used to buy furniture and safety, first aid and audio equipment, to help the charity's efforts.

Anchor Aid chairman Adrian Horner said yesterday: "The award is most welcome and accepted on behalf of and in recognition of the dedication since 1986 of those volunteers who have given so freely of their time."