Lottery cash grant joy for Norwich community groups

Community groups in Norwich are celebrating after being handed their share of more than �370,000 of funding that has been awarded to the east of England.

The Big Lottery Fund's 'Awards for All' programme offers grants of between �300 and �10,000 to social and environmental projects that will benefit local communities, such as voluntary and community groups, schools, health organisations and local councils.

Bignold Primary School, on Wessex Street, Norwich, received the maximum �10,000 and is planning an art project which will see pupils work with an artist to create sculptures in the community.

Eaton Vale Scout and Guide Activity Centre, on the southern outskirts of the city, has also got the maximum funding to buy a mobile climbing tower.

There were some smaller grants given out as well: St Thomas' Parents and Toddler Group on Earlham Road has been given �400 for a new climbing frame and play mat for the pre-school and Single Parents in Norfolk (SPIN) got �900 towards organising activities for members.

While Space East, a Norwich-based group which provides support for vulnerable individuals and communities in supported housing, received a �9,780 boost to create a new website and buy computer equipment.

Many other grants were handed to groups around Norfolk and north Suffolk, including �9,165 for the village hall in Freethorpe, east of Norwich, which will allow for a disabled toilet and baby changing facilities to be installed.

In Gorleston, Peterhouse Community Primary School has been given �9,728 to create a sensory wildlife garden to improve the biodiversity of the area.

Sara Betsworth, Big Lottery Fund's head of the east of England region, said: 'It's brilliant to see the wide range of activities that projects in our region are planning with grants from Awards for All.'

Do you know a group with big plans for the future? Contact reporter David Freezer on 01603 772418 or email david.freezer@archant.co.uk