A HOST of lucky groups and individuals in the district are set to blossom after being given a cash lift by the XPRESSION scheme.

Amongst the lucky recipients from Wyre Forest District Council’s grant project was the Kidderminster Beekeepers Association, which will be able to pay for new equipment after receiving a £750 boost.

In total seven individuals and groups from the world of sport, leisure and heritage shared £3,030 between them.

Cllr Marcus Hart, Wyre Forest District Council’s cabinet member for community and partnership services, said: “We’re delighted to support new initiatives to develop cultural opportunities and activities.

“We want to help individuals and clubs develop their talents and support clubs in reaching their goals.”

Kemp Hospice was the biggest winner from the seventh round of grants. It will receive £980 to pay for an artist to work with its patients and help them create nature themed pieces, for an exhibition at Kidderminster Library in March next year.

Elsewhere in the world of art, the Classic Music Society was given £500 to help pay for four recitals, which will be hosted by the library in 2010.

From the world of sport, Samurai Judo Club sisters Amelia and Charis Hancocks were given £200 each, while gifted young golfer Emily Hyde and rising hockey player Nathan Claris were also given contributions towards coaching and travel costs.

The latest recipients met the criteria set by the awards panel, which includes being a resident, at school, or a member of a club in the district as well as providing full details of what the grant is needed for.

XPRESSION, which is supported by The Shuttle/Times and News, has given out grants worth £18,940 to deserving local people since its inception in 2007.

The sports grants are presented under the banner of the Ray Mercer Sporting Foundation, which was incorporated into XPRESSION two years ago.

Application forms can be found on our website, at www.wyreforest.gov.uk or by calling Penny Hamilton-Gray on 01562 732970.

The next XPRESSION grant round closes on Friday, December 1.

Individuals, groups or clubs can apply for funding, with individuals receiving up to £400, while groups are able to apply for up to £1,000.


PICTURES OF LATEST XPRESSION WINNERS
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