Groups invited to apply for funding

Community groups working to improve life in St Andrews have been invited to apply for funding.

St Andrews University has launched the second round of its community fund to support groups and activities in the area.

The first round launched in April and gave a range of local causes a financial boost.

They included Saje Scotland, which received £2,000 to support women and girls experiencing domestic abuse during lockdown.

Applications will be accepted from organisations across Fife, providing their activities have an impact on St Andrews and the neighbouring communities.

Eligible projects also include those which increase engagement between the university and the community or promote the environment.

Groups that promote diversity and inclusion or celebrate St Andrews heritage will also be considered.

Funding of between £250 and £3,000 is available.

During the first round, the university sought applications for activities which addressed the needs of the community during the pandemic. It said small voluntary bodies are the key to recovery.

A spokesman said: “As we continue to combat the pandemic locally and nationally, the university is still keen to receive applications that consider opportunities and activities which offer solutions to community needs during the Covid crisis.

“All applications will be considered on a caseby-case basis. The fund will prioritise small, grassroots charities and community organisations over larger organisations.”

Go to st-andrews. ac.uk/community/ community-fund to apply.

Maddy Hill will reprise her role as Nancy Carter in EastEnders after nearly five years away from Albert Square.

The soap character will make a surprise return to Walford after settling down to start married life in New Zealand with her husband Tamwar Masood, played by Tenet star Himesh Patel.

Nancy first arrived in the square with the Carters in 2014 and quickly became embroiled in drama as her family took over The Queen Vic.

However, her unlikely romance with Tamwar resulted in them heading off on an adventure, travelling around the world.

After her exit from EastEnders in 2016, Hill joined Casualty as the paramedic Ruby Spark.

She left the show after two years in April 2020 when her character decided to look after her baby niece after her sister’s death.

Hill said: “I’m so excited to be coming back and reconnecting with all the hilarious, warm, talented cast and crew and meeting some lovely new faces.

“I absolutely loved playing Nancy and have often wondered what she’s up to, so feel very grateful to be able to rediscover her five years on.”

Jon Sen, executive producer of EastEnders, said: “We’re delighted to have Maddy back and I can’t wait for audiences to see what’s in store for Nancy.

“There’s a lot of mystery surrounding her return and she’s coming back to a family that have been through a very difficult year – things are definitely not as Nancy left them.

“Maddy is a fantastic actor and we feel very lucky to have her back in Walford.”

Hill will begin filming this month with her scenes airing in the spring.