MORE than £6,000 has been handed to local good causes at this year’s Astwood Bank Community Group awards evening.

Taking place at Ridgeway Academy some 18 groups benefited from cash raised at various community events over the last 12 months.

Although the carnival in July is the main fundraiser, a series of events are put on by the community group throughout the year which are supported by both residents and local businesses.

In the past year these have included an Easter egg hunt, an open garden event, a barn dance, and a Bollywood evening.

Many of the recipients of the awards were active in supporting these events.

Ashley Hewitt, chairman of Astwood Bank Community Group, said: “This has been another very successful year, but it really means a lot to the committee members to hear the stories of how the groups are going to reinvest their grants into providing facilities and opportunities for individuals both in Astwood Bank and the wider community.

"For this success story to continue we are always looking for new volunteers to help us in any way to put on these events.

"No matter how small the role you want to play we would be delighted to hear from you. Please just email me at chair@astwoodbankcarnival.co.uk."