Funding boost for Fife groups

Three Fife community projects are among 23 across the country sharing in £957,526 from the Young Start fund.

Greener Kirkcaldy will benefit from £47,515, which will go towards an after-school club and outdoor holiday club for children aged eight to 12 from the Hayfield and Templehall neighbourhoods.

Activities will include denbuilding, pond dipping, art with natural materials, growing food, indoor campfire cooking, games and stories.

The children will learn about nature, wild spaces, where food comes from, investigation, risk-taking and team work, and will have the chance to work towards a John Muir award.

Methilhill Community Children’s Initiative will also benefit to the tune of £40,508, helping it to continue delivering a range of recreational and educational activities for young people aged 10 to 18.

A two-year project will include running a local press publication, outdoor skills and activities, skills building courses and a volunteer programme.

Families First in St Andrews will receive £19,342 to offer support and social activities to children and young people living in North East Fife with additional support needs.

Its work includes activities such as baking, arts and crafts, physical games and outings.

Young Start is a grants programme run by the Big Lottery Fund to distribute money from dormant bank and building society accounts.