MILFORD Haven-based hardship charity Patch is £10,000 better off thanks to a Lottery grant, one of five made in the county.

The National Lottery Community Fund grants total £33,947.

Pembrokeshire Action to Combat Hardship (Patch) will use a £10,000 grant to replace one of its vans, used to deliver food and basics to those in real financial need, across the area.

PATCH Manager Tracy Olin said: “We have seen a huge increase in the donations of surplus food from most of the supermarkets in Pembrokeshire. Our older van was beyond repair and without a second van we would have lost many donations. The grant enabled us to buy a smaller, automatic van which meant that meant that more of our volunteers and staff could use it. Thank you so much.”

Pembrokeshire Foster Carers Association (PFCA) successfully applied for £6,615 to offer support to children in care, by providing them with opportunities to build confidence and socialise.

St David's Diocesan Council for Social Responsibility – Plant Dewi Project - applied for £9,933 to start a sustainable bicycle maintenance scheme.

Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum CiC gets a grant for £4,899 to hold four training events and Coastal Challenge days.

Puncheston Recreational Development Committee will use its £2,500 grant to bring members of their community of Puncheston together to help reduce loneliness.