A COMMUNITY association that was rocked by financial scandal is working hard to get back on its feet, auditors say.

Henknowle Community Association has been praised for its stringent financial systems, adopted after more than £1,000 was stolen from its account.

Jane Ascroft, an auditor from voluntary support group 2D, called the association's accounting system "superb".

She said: "The committee have worked hard to improve their financial controls. I was pleased to be able to award them the highest grade in this financial health check."

Liz Tallentire, who has been the association's treasurer since August, has computerised its accounts and each group hiring the community centre is issued with a receipt.

The association's chairman, Durham county councillor John Lethbridge, said: "Liz's work has been first-rate. She has brought a level of IT expertise and transparency to the community association, and we are all grateful."

With help from Wear Valley District Council, the association has also installed a kitchen, and replaced heating and lighting systems, as well as reflooring the sports hall.

Coun Lethbridge took over as chairman from Alex Clements, who was convicted last November of stealing £1,135 from the association in July 2004.

Clements was given a three-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months.

Coun Lethbridge said: "It was a sad time for the association and the community. But we've moved on now. We want to celebrate what we're doing and we're looking forward to good things happening for the association and the area.

"We would like to thank Wear Valley District Council and Durham County Council for their support."

The community centre hosts many groups and has rooms available for hire. For details, call 01388-458470.