MORE than £15,000 has been donated to community groups and sports clubs in Witheridge to help purchase new equipment, upgrade facilities and improve their services.

The funds have been provided by L&G’s Affordable Homes division as part of a grant funding scheme connected to its 155-home Benson Grange development, located in Witheridge.

The donated funds were shared among a number of organisations.

Local football club Witheridge Warriors YFC received funding for brand new football goalposts, providing a refreshed appearance and an extra layer of professionalism for the club.

The Witheridge Rest-A-While Day Centre – a charity that works to support older people with wellbeing – has received funding to upgrade facilities at the centre.

Funding for the Witheridge Sports Club will support them with new equipment and facilities to help bolster services and opportunities to sports and leisure for the community.

Witheridge Parish Council will use its donation to purchase a new defibrillator as well as provide other financial support as the new parish council establishes itself in the community.

The Knights of Witheridge will use their funding to continue their work locally and support a number of other local organisations.

“We are very grateful for the donation,” Witheridge Warriors YFC coach Tommy Butcher said.

“The goals have added an extra level of professionalism to our club. The players and spectators have commented on how much better they look compared to our old, many times repaired goalposts and have also passed on their thanks.”

Ian Tench from the Knights of Witheridge said: “During the course of the year the Knights of Witheridge raise funds for various good causes in the village.

“We are grateful to L&G for their contribution. It makes a huge difference and will be used next year across a number of charities and to help subsidise events.”