AN EMERGENCY fund to support voluntary organisations through the coronavirus pandemic is set to be extended.

Hexham Town Council has done its best to provide financial backing for local charities and community groups which have been hit hard during the past six months.

At the council's latest meeting, which took place electronically on Monday, the Mayor of Hexham, Coun. Bob Hull, said that the emergency fund would remain open for grant applications.

He said: "The emergency fund which the council put in place at the start of the pandemic will be extended.

"It is emergency funding and we are inviting grant applications from community organisations in the town who believe they need the money as a result of the Covid situation."

Deputy Mayor, Coun. Steve Ball, said the move to extend the scheme was a significant one.

He expained: "In terms of the recovery from the pandemic, I am proud that the town council has made these funds available.

"The voluntary sector and charities working in the town can be very proud of their work during these difficult six months, and I think it's an acknowledgement of their work and continuing response that we have decided to offer grant assistance for the future.

"I think it will help build a post-Covid Hexham by using the energy of the local townspeople."

For more information visit hexhamtowncouncil.gov.uk.