FORMER Chancellor George Osborne helped Cheshire Community Foundation launch its new initiative, the Knutsford Community Fund.

Mr Osborne, who was previously MP for Tatton, spoke at the launch event at Bentley Manchester.

The aim of the fund is to significantly increase the impact of local charities and to bring other charities into the town.

It was started thanks to the generosity of Portswigger, Oliver Valves, Edmundson Electrical and several benevolent families in the town.

The fund provides an opportunity for like-minded philanthropists to pool resources with others and, as a result, maximise charitable impact.

Knutsford Guardian:

George Osborne speaking at the launch

The money will be distributed by Cheshire Community Foundation to ensure it gets to the places where it will make a difference.

The Foundation was also joined at the launch by David Briggs, the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire and President of Cheshire Community Foundation.

Mr Osborne highlighted the need for change in Knutsford and the importance of working together to support people living in the town who need help.

This was echoed in the words of the representatives from the community groups who attended the event, who provided an insight into the lives of people living in the area who need assistance.

Knutsford Guardian:

Zoe Sheppard at the launch

The event provided the opportunity for prospective donors, supporters and community leaders to learn about the Knutsford Community Fund and how they can become involved, by donating to the fund or by sharing their expertise.

Zoe Sheppard, CEO of Cheshire Community Foundation, said: “We are delighted to have been able to launch the Knutsford Community Fund and to welcome George Osborne to help us promote this fantastic initiative.

“Knutsford is widely regarded as affluent, but there are also pockets of serious disadvantage and deprivation where the life opportunities of adults and children are limited. This fund aims to help address these issues.”

For more information about Cheshire Community Foundation and the Knutsford Community Fund and how you can become involved, either as a donor or a supporter, call 01606 330607.