More than 50 groups from across Northumberland gathered at the Alnwick Playhouse to receive certificates and medals marking their success in applying for a grant from the High Sheriff’s Community Fund.
High Sheriff, Lucia Bridgeman and actor and comedian, Alexander Armstrong, who is the son of Rothbury doctors and was born and brought up in Rothbury, were on hand to give out the awards.
The High Sheriff is involved in promoting, acknowledging and supporting voluntary and community work, as well as giving active support to the legal, emergency and prison services.
Amongst the groups chosen were cadets, scouts, theatre, dance and sports clubs, education specialists and support groups for those affected by domestic violence or prison sentences within the family.
5. 224 (Hexham) Squadron Air Training Corps
224 (Hexham) Squadron Air Training Corps will use their grant to purchase equipment for young air cadets. Photo: Jane Coltman
6. November Club
The club delivers theatre productions in non-traditional venues, working with amateur and professionals. They have just worked with Lowick and Holy Island First School, along with author Lizette Auton, to make an immersive show using the children's ideas, words and art work. Photo: Jane Coltman
7. Choysez - All-Girls Alternative Provision
Choysez in Bedlington provides young women with small group classroom-based work, as well as support with future employment and educational opportunities. Their grant was for used for reconditioned iPads to support excluded and isolated young women. Photo: Jane Coltman
8. The Dales School
The Dales is a specialist primary school in Blyth and Ashington for children with a variety of additional needs. The grant given to them from the High Sheriff's Fund is for their after school gardening club Photo: Jane Coltman