AN Evesham charity is one of many celebrating after being awarded a grant from West Midlands Arts.

The Garage Art Group, which teaches all aspects of arts to adults with learning difficulties, was one of the 20 projects awarded a share of £24,881 given out by the Grass Roots Fund. The group was awarded £2,000 to spend on the project and founder Jan Miller said she was delighted.

"We are absolutely thrilled to have it. It will help us to do more work and we also hope to spend the money on equipment, materials and the hiring of the room. We are also looking into the possibility of taking group members on a few outings."

Jan would like to hear from volunteers who are used to dealing with people with special needs and have artistic ideas. If you think you can help, phone Jan on 01386 870901.

Meanwhile the Wellesbourne Youth Club was awarded £1,000. The club says it will use the cash to work with an artist on a mural to brighten the club's surroundings.

Two Stratford companies were also awarded cash. Low Furlong received £1,125. They plan to create a distinctive mosaic sign for the building, so it will become a focal point. And O' Brien Puppets received £500 for their puppet festival of nativity, which is scheduled for the weekend before Christmas 2000.

Claire Fielden, lead officer for the Grass Roots Fund, said: "We have funded a wide range of arts projects happening in a wide range of rural locations in this round of awards. I have been very impressed by the variety of projects and inspirational ideas. The next deadline is December 1 and I look forward to receiving exciting applications."