Hartleyburn Community Association (CA) in Crawley Avenue, Hebburn, is the only CA in the borough that operates without any paid staff.

Coun Eddie McAtominey, who represents Labour in Hebburn South, has nominated the management committee for Community Group of the Year in the Pride of South Tyneside Awards.

He said: "It is a purely voluntary organisation which is now in its 40th year of giving service and commitment to the community.

"Activities range from ladies' groups, mothers and toddlers, youth groups, dancing classes, judo, a debating society (Probus), art group and occasional parties.

"In addition, this centre opens its doors most days to a group of people with learning difficulties.

"Obviously the work entailed for the officers of the management committee is very demanding, but it is undertaken willingly by this dedicated group of people, who have worked together for many years.

"The organisation is open to the public every day and is extremely well used, catering for the very young up to, and including, elderly groups.

"Over the years, the management committee has raised many thousands of pounds for charitable organisations.

"It selects on an annual basis the charity of its choice and donates to these good causes.

"Last year, the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal received a substantial donation. This year's charity is the Alzheimer's Society.

"I believe this group is a very worthy candidate for consideration."