Cash boost from the Co-op for local groups

“This new injection of funding will allow us to purchase some new open canoes, which are specifically designed for younger people.

“This will mean that we can deliver training opportunities to a wide area within West Yorkshire, but initially focussing on Shepley and Holmfirth.

“Our young people aged 10 to 18 will greatly benefit from this equipment, which enable them to achieve higher levels of skills and reach goals which were previously unattainable.”

Family support charity Home-Start Kirklees also received a grant, scooping £2,000 for a variety of items including duvets, curtains, bedding and children’s clothing.

Kerri Flanagan, scheme manager, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded the money to support our affordable warmth initiative, which will go a long way to help our most vulnerable families in the coming winter months.

“Many of our families with young children struggle to afford the most basic essential items to keep themselves warm.

“This grant will support the distribution of items such as coats, hats, scarves and wellington boots for the children, as well as duvets and curtains for the households where parents are really struggling financially to cope and need a helping hand.”

Representatives from all three groups gathered at the New Mill Food Store, in Wooldale, to celebrate their funding award.

Grants of between £100 and £5,000 are handed out every three months to a wide range of applicants.

The Co-operative fund guarantees at least 1% of trading profit is reinvested in local communities.

People can apply for funding by visiting https:// communities.centralengland.coop/