A scheme celebrating and exploring the connections between Olympians and Paralympians from North East England has received £48,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

Home and Away - North East Sport and Olympics will enable people from across the local community to examine 200 years of sport in the region ahead of the London 2012 Games.

The scheme is led by Tyne and Wear Archives and Museums', with volunteers in Newcastle, Gateshead, Durham and Hartlepool to work with local sports clubs.

Research will contribute to an exhibition showcasing the achievements of local athletes, with the main exhibition to be held at the Newcastle Discovery Museum.

Five smaller exhibitions are also planned, in addition to heritage trails and walks that explore hidden sports venues and clubs from the last 200 years.

Ivor Crowther, head of the HLF North East, said: "With the 2012 Games next year, stories of success from sporting personalities from the North East gives everyone the opportunity to get involved and feel inspired."