Twenty charities and good causes from across County Durham and Darlington have received a cash boost from the police and fire services.
Police HQ at Aykley Heads hosts the bonfire and fireworks event, organised by Durham Constabulary and Co Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, every November.
Thousands of people attend the spectacular show, one of the biggest in the North-East. Last year’s was the 36th consecutive year it had been staged.
Once the organisers have paid off the essential costs for the event any proceeds from ticket sales are then distributed to local voluntary projects and charities.
And the 2011 show yielded a total of nearly £9,000 which has been handed over to representatives of the various good causes.
The presentation was held at Fire Headquarters in Framwellgate Moor, near Durham city with the cheques being presented by Colin Bage, head of operations for Co Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue.
The recipients include Brandon United FC, who will use the funds to improve facilities and access for more young and disabled people; Bishop Auckland Cycling Club, who are trying to recruit and retain additional young members; the Durham branch of Guide Dogs for the Blind and Durham Heritage Centre and Museum, which is restoring two stained glass windows which date from 1822 and used to be on display in Brancepeth Castle.
Other beneficiaries include Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team, the Percy Hedley Foundation, which provides specialised servcies for children and adults with cerebral palsy, sensory and complex learning needs and the surgical oncology fund at the University Hospital of North Durham.
