COMMUNITY groups in Tynedale are celebrating after receiving a funding boost thanks to Co-op members.

Local causes in the district are set to receive a share of £61,797 this month, thanks to money raised when Co-op members buy own-branded products and services.

The money raised is being shared by projects to support services in the community, including Bellingham Primary School, North Tyne Youth and Bellingham in Bloom.

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Since the Local Community Fund was launched in 2016, some 116 causes in Tynedale have benefitted.

Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community & member participation at Co-op, said: "I am delighted to see the incredible amount Co-op members have raised, simply by choosing Co-op.

"We know that the Cost of Living crisis is making it incredibly challenging for many local causes.

"I’m proud our Local Community Fund can be a lifeline, not only promoting the development of stronger, more resilient and fairer communities but also helping people cope with what life throws at them.

"By listening closely to our local causes, along with data from Co-op's Community Wellbeing Index, and our network of Member Pioneers, it’s helped us bring to life Co-op’s vision of ‘Co-operating for a Fairer World’, providing the long-term investment and support local causes need.

"Our members have all helped make their communities places where they can be proud to live and work."

The latest round of Co-op’s Local Community Fund has supported 4,500 community projects UK-wide.