A DOZEN charities have received grants from Malton and Norton Lions as part of their Community Grants programme.

Lion president Jack Wilford presented cheques to charities that support a wide range of people, young and old, in Malton, Norton and nearby villages.

He said: “This is the second time Malton and Norton Lions have operated a formal grant scheme following the success of our centennial grants last year.

“We are delighted that the scheme has again been such a great success.

“It is a pleasure to be able to support local charities who are doing some brilliant work in the Malton and Norton area.

“The Lions work throughout the year raising funds to support local charities and individuals and we have decided that we want to offer grants to a wider range of groups that may not have thought of approaching us for funding in the past, but who want to deliver smaller projects that benefit others in the area.”

Pat Thompson, from Ryedale Stroke Group, said: “We at Ryedale Stroke group are thrilled to receive this grant which means a lot to our group and which will help us to deliver our popular summer project outings for our members. Our grateful thanks to Malton and Norton Lions for their support – we are very appreciative.”

Helen Keane, from 1st Malton Guides, said: “Malton Guides are pleased to be in receipt of a Malton and Norton Lions grant.

“We intend to buy some new tents, as our current ones need replacing.

“Thanks to the dedication of our amazing volunteers we can provide opportunities for girls and young women to gain important life skills.”

Colin Bell, Warrant Officer, 1323 Sqn RAF Air Cadets, added:“Many thanks to Malton and Norton Lions for generously providing a grant for new sports equipment for the Squadron.

"As we lost the majority of our equipment during building refurbishment at Brooklyn, the Cadets have had to rely on few and far sports sessions, which has reduced their ability to engage fully at regional level sports competitions.

“With this funding, we will be able to replenish our equipment and provide regular high quality training to allow our Cadets to compete and put Ryedale Squadron back on the map as a force to be reckoned with, giving them every chance to go on and represent their chosen sport at national level.”

The recipients are: 1st Norton Scout Group, Ryedale Stroke Group, Ryedale Community Transport, Kirby Misperton Village Hall, 1st Malton Guides, 1323 Ryedale Squadron, RAF Cadets, Ryedale Community and Leisure Centre, Community Counselling (North Yorkshire) Ltd, Westow Cricket Club and Community Pavillion, United Martial Arts, The Encephalitis Society and Norton Hive Library and Community Hub.