COMMUNITY Spirit has benefitted from a £3,000 grant from Knutsford Town Council.

The dedicated residents’ group was presented with the money following a successful application for funding through the Community Grant Scheme.

The council’s finance committee awarded the grant to Community Spirit to help them continue their valuable work.

Their projects include Longridge and Shaw Heath in Bloom, Street Sports, The Welcome Youth Summer Programme, the Longridge Fun Day and a contribution towards their operating costs.

Chairman of Community Spirit, Kane Gunter, said: “With the on-going support of the town council, our youth are now settling into set activities and memorable events.

“We now have regular activities that cater for around 70 plus youngsters and youth, and these numbers are climbing week by week.”

The Council Grant Scheme offers funding to bodies which enhance the lives of Knutsford residents and this year, the grants budget has been increased to £20,000.

As well as Community Spirit, Knutsford Royal May Day, Knutsford in Bloom and Egerton Pre-School have successfully applied for grants and over £12,000 in grants has been awarded so far this year.

The council said it has seen an increase in interest in the grant scheme compared to previous years.

“We have had a few organisations apply who haven’t applied for funding before, which is good to see,” said Town Clerk Adam Keppel-Garner.

“Applications are open throughout the year and can be made via the town council website.”

Applications are considered approximately every six weeks at the finance committee meetings.

For more information about the grant scheme and how to apply, visit the website knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/Community/CommunityGrants.

Alternatively, call 01565 653929 and speak to town clerk Adam Keppel-Garner.