A GROUP for disabled artists has received a cash boost from Chester-le-Street’s biggest social landlord.

Cestria Community Housing’s Community Benefit Fund gave £1,000 to the Chester-le-Street Society of Disabled Artists (SODA), which meets each Thursday at the Auckland Community Centre, between 11am and 3pm.

Chairman and secretary Beryl Ringland said: “The aim of the group is to help and develop the artistic talents of people with disabilities.

“We are delighted to receive this grant which not only helps our members continue to attend the weekly art classes but means they will feel less socially isolated.

“The money will be used towards funds for the hire of a bus to enable members who are in wheelchairs, or have other mobility issues to come to the sessions.

“It will also pay towards materials and we are looking at people to come in and do demonstrations which the group enjoys.

“The group is self-funded so grants like these are greatly appreciated.”

Cestria selected Mrs Ringland’s painting of holly for its festive e-card to its partners and stakeholders.

Christine Scott, Cestria’s assistant director of corporate services, said: “We are pleased to offer this grant and hope that the transport arrangements will encourage new members to join in with activities.

“The quality of their artist talents is of a very high standard and we were more than happy to select one of their designs as the front cover of our corporate Christmas card this year.”

The group also received £1,000 from Kevan Jones MP and the Community Health Revenue Fund.