VOLUNTARY and community groups in Bacup and Stacksteads are to benefit from Community Chest funding.

Groups in the Valley are eligible to receive up to £250 for funding to go towards various community projects.

Grants have already been donated to groups including:

Bacup Consortium to help fund the organisation of Bacup Christmas Market

Thorn Primary School's PTA to provide money for new blinds as part of ongoing improvements to the school's main hall

Rossendale Family Forum to fund a drama project to combat bullying

Rossendale Shotokan Karate Club also received a grant to help encourage more people to take up the sport to improve health and self confidence

Bacup Cadet Firefighters received help with the cost of replacing old worn out tents for their outdoor activities.

Dale Connearn, community development officer at Bacup and Stacksteads Single Regeneration Budget Team, said: "The aim of the Community Chest is to assist in the development of local community and voluntary organisations and their activities.

"Groups who think they may be able to benefit from a Community Chest grant must be based in the OL13 postcode area, based in Rossendale but trying to develop a presence in the OL13 postcode area and catering for residents in that area."

To apply for a Community Chest grant or to find out more information, contact Dale Connearn, Community Development Officer, Rossendale Borough Council.