Community groups across the north and north-east are celebrating after receiving a slice of £1.5million funding.
The National Lottery has awarded £1,551,849 to 219 arts, sports and groups across the country.
Among the recipients was Orkney Women’s Football Club, which received £3,563 to run training sessions and cover the cost of attending competitive matches on the mainland.
Club secretary Annabel Bews said: “We currently have around 60 members and this money will be a huge help to our growing club, especially our newly formed junior team.
“We can now offer opportunities to more girls and women across Orkney and this is a fantastic boost for all our existing members in this coming 2020 season.”
Moray School Bank, which works to offer new school uniforms and warm winter clothing to children living in financial hardship in the region, landed £10,000 to cover staff costs and create school uniform packs.
Founder Debi Weir said: “It was brilliant news. We were really delighted and now this funding will cover the cost of our volunteer coordinator.
“It will allow us to continue to grow our volunteer efforts and services.
“This way we’ll be able to get more young people through the door and help as many as possible.”
The Printfield Community Project in Aberdeen was awarded £10,000 which will be used for weekly, year-round youth clubs for children and young people aged between five and 18.
Meanwhile the Scottish Spina Bifida Association in Aberdeen will use its £9,897 cash boost for its Positive Connections group where children with Spina Bifida, their siblings and carers can meet for advice, support, play and respite.
A National Lottery Awards for All Scotland spokeswoman said: “This is National Lottery money making a real impact in communities across the country.
“The 219 groups receiving funding today showcases the wide range of projects that can be funded through this programme and the difference that the smallest amounts of money can make.
“We wish them all the best for the year ahead as they begin to put their plans into action.”
To find out more about applying for a community grant through the National Lottery Trust visit www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk or phone 0300 123 7110.
