TWO LOCAL community groups were this week awarded a slice of £800,000 donated to Scottish groups from the National Lottery.

The Garnock Valley Disability Forum and The Butterfly Club were the lucky recipients of £4,000 and £5,000 respectively.

The money awarded to the GV Disability Forum will be used to reduce loneliness and isolation among their group members who all have a disability. Four supported outings will be provided and members will be taken on a small holiday to allow them to gain new experiences.

Jean Gilbert from the group told the Herald: “We are absolutely delighted to have the Award for All which has boosted the finance to allow them to go on a short break. This money provides for the buses and a couple of day trips. They’re going to Nimes from 9-13 October and they’re absolutely delighted.”

The Butterfly Club will use their money to deliver a summer club for children and young people with severe, complex and profound learning disabilities.

An Awards for All spokesperson said, “This is National Lottery money in action, reaching into communities across Scotland making a real difference to the people who live there. The 115 groups receiving funding today showcases the range of projects that can be funded through this programme and the difference that the smallest amounts can make.”