Local groups and organisations are set to reap the rewards as Shepway's Community Chest opens again this year.

The Community Chest, this year worth around £100,000, offers community groups grants of up to £5,000 for new equipment or even building works.

There is a special grant award being offered this year of up to £50,000.

This is the sixth year that the community chest has been running and it has so far helped a wide range of projects for sports, heritage, heath, the arts and even community halls.

Last year the community chest paid £73,961 to more than 25 community groups throughout the district.

One group to benefit last year were the Romney Marsh Bowmen, a local archery group who secure £500 for new equipment.

Roger Moore from the Romney Marsh Bowmen said "Since purchasing the equipment we have undertaken the training of two adults and four juniors. We are grateful to SDC for this grant as I am sure anyone using the equipment will be."

The closing date for the receipt of applications is 3rd January 2012.

For further information, please contact:
David Illsley on 01303 853474
dave.illsley@shepway.gov.uk

or
Melanie Waltham-Smith on 01303 853402
Melanie.Watham-Smith@shepway.gov.uk

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©