A CLUB is flying high after receiving thousands of pounds of Lottery cash.

Middlestone Moor Homing Society, based near Spennymoor, has landed a £5,000 Awards for All grant to buy race timing clocks for some of its members, whose old clocks are becoming defunct and can cost hundreds of pounds.

The pigeon racing club also plans a publicity drive to attract new and younger members.

Michael Samuels said: "This money will be a big help in allowing some of our members to continue in the sport and also to keep pigeon racing going.

"Pigeon racing is a traditional pitman's sport, but with the pits closing it's on the decline. We need to bring in some younger people to carry it on."

The money is part of £61,435 donated to 14 groups in County Durham in the latest round of Awards for All grants, administered by the Big Lottery Fund.