EIGHT voluntary groups across Ashton-under-Lyne have seen their projects handed a vital cash boost.
They have been given grants from the fifth year of Tameside Community Safety’s fund.
Almost 60 people gathered at New Life Church in Cockbrook to listen to presentations before voting to decide which groups should receive grants.
To qualify, projects had to be based around one or more of three themes: activities and interventions that reduce harmful behaviour; improving environmental resilience and challenges; and empowering communities to transform lives.
The winners were Broadoak and Smallshaw Community Association; Friends of Waterloo Park; Groundwork Greater Manchester; Khush Amdid; New Life Church; St Gabriel’s Community Group; Tameside Health Group, and North Tameside District Scouts.
The latest community grants event at the St James Street church covered Tameside’s north neighbourhood, which comprises the whole of Ashton-under-Lyne.
The evening was opened by the new Civic Mayor of Tameside, Councillor Shibley Alam, who thanked volunteers for their valuable work.
It was also supported by councillors from the four Ashton wards and Lifeline Community Ambulance, which gave its first aid services free of charge.
“It was wonderful to hear that more than 50 people attended,” said Councillor Stephen Homer, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Towns and Communities.
“All of them were eager to play their part in rewarding the community groups that do such very valuable work in Ashton.
“I think the general feeling was summed up by one of the people there. They said it was their first time at a community grants event and they loved the way it went. Meeting so many people put them in contact with lots of other groups.
“All in all, it was a very successful night which is just what I expected.”