WYCHAVON District Council has played its part in helping new projects for schools and clubs get a cash kick-start.

The council has supported the latest rounds of bids for the Awards For All programme which gives a helping hand to organisations to launch new projects to expand existing schemes incorporating sports, community and the arts.

The council's youth and sport development officer Jem Teal said: "The awards offer local clubs and organisations the chance to realise their dreams which would not otherwise come to fruition because of lack of funding. All these groups which have received cash provide valuable services to the community and can continue to do so thanks to Awards For All."

Beneficiaries this year include Blackminster Middle School which got £1,322 to buy three table tennis tables to increase the number of players at a school-based club and to increase standards.

Offenham CE First School collected £3,180 for a project to increase skills and extend access to tennis at the school through the provision of coaching and equipment, to include travel expenses, court markings and storage.

A scheme to improve indoor and outdoor play facilities at Holy Redeemer Primary School in Pershore has been boosted with a grant of £4.860 to contribute towards play equipment, safety flooring, installation and staff and volunteer training.

Broadway First School has been given £3,565 to establish three after-school activities providing access to football, tennis and cricket for young people in the village. The grant will pay for equipment and training courses for volunteers.