A RIBBLE Valley youth group has received a large cash boost after winning a public vote.

The Clitheroe Youth Forum has been awarded £3,000 by Lloyds Bank Community Fund after bank staff and the public voted for the organisation.

The 140-member voluntary group engages children from all backgrounds in positive activities throughout the area.

The grant will help fund opportunities including sailing, rock climbing, skiing and mechanics.

Clitheroe Youth Forum was up against Pendle Ski Club, OJ’s Sensory Trust and Three Valley’s Gospel Choir in the East Lancashire-wide poll.

Group chairman Mel Diack, who is helped by six volunteers to run the group, said: “It’s amazing. You will find some who hate the idea of sailing yet will take to it like a duck to water, and then others who like the idea of rock climbing but freeze when they get there.

“But it gives them all more confidence when they find an interest, especially for those who have learning difficulties it can make a big difference.

“It’s invaluable for organisations such as us, especially more so as it’s harder to find support from normal sources at the moment.

“And to receive the community support is wonderful. We have done quite a bit in the community and it’s nice they have come back to thank us by voting.”

Four good causes in each community were nominated by bank staff, with customers and the public asked to vote for the groups they would most like to support.