Charity cheer for area’s groups

OVER half a dozen groups and charities from Annandale and Eskdale have have received funding from the Scottish Government.

Each organisation successfully applied to round four of the Community Led Local Development (CLLD) Fund, receiving a share of the £500,000 pot which will be used to help community facilities reach net zero; sustaining, improving and adding initiatives in rural communities; address the cost-of-living crisis and carry out research, needs assessments, and feasibility studies for local place plans.

The largest grant awarded to Annandale groups went to the Creation Mill at Langholm, who were given £29,262 for their future fibres project.

The funds will be used to purchase of wool processing equipment, including a mini scourer, a drying cabinet and a semi-industrial carder, with training and community workshops.

Also awarded substantial funding were the Annan The History Town Group who received £24,729 grant to transform the Everholm site into an accessible, inclusive space with raised beds, benches, paths and heritage signage, supported by volunteers and youth groups.

The Upper Eskdale Development Group was also given a £20,248.69 grant which will be put towards an active travel hub in Eskdalemuir.

Meanwhile, Newstart Recycle in Annan was awarded £5000 for a Free Baby and Toddler Project to provide essential baby items at no cost. A further £1550 will go to the organisation’s Free Mobility Equipment project, offering free mobility equipment to older and vulnerable people, supporting independence and confidence.

Tony Nesbit and Frankie McGowan, Newstart Recycle co-founders, said: “The funding awarded will make a real difference to families and individuals across our region.

“These services are a lifeline, providing essential baby items with dignity, and mobility equipment that restores independence and confidence. In today’s financially challenging climate, this support is not just welcome, it’s essential to sustaining the provision of these services that our communities deeply value and rely on. We’re proud to continue standing alongside those who need us most.”

Other groups also benefitting from funding in the latest round included:

• Kirkpatrick Juxta Community Council, local place plan development, £2500;
• Langholm Initiative for the Cronksbank water supply, £ 14,034.65;
• Springfield and Gretna Green Community Asset Trust for main hall refurbishment, £17,000.