COMMUNITY organisations can profit from a 'double your money' grant thanks to a charitable trust based in Halwill.

Six years ago the Balsdon Trust was set up by the executors of farmer Bill Balsdon, who had directed that his estate should be used for local charitable purposes.

The trust deed permits applications to be considered from anywhere within ten miles of the parish churches of Halwill, Langtree or Holsworthy.

Since the trust was set up, grants totalling £168,660 have been made to 89 clubs and community projects. The trust also provides grants to schools.

If a group needs money for a particular project, not just running costs, and has intentions of holding a fundraiser between January 31 and April 30 next year, then over the next month, it can apply for a 'double your money' grant from the trust. If approved, this would double any profit made at a fundraising event, up to a specified limit.

All applications received before January 20 will be evaluated and successful applicants notified shortly after the closing date.

Applicants are asked to include details of how much is needed to raise for the project, details of the fundraising event, including expectations on what it is hoped to raise, and a landline phone number or e-mail address.

Applications can be made by letter to The Balsdon Trust, c/o Lia Painter, 11 Bray Road, Holsworthy, EX22 6FJ.