LOTTERY grants of nearly £34,000 have been made to five groups in Pembrokeshire.

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. Tracy Olin

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. They will take part in horse riding, health classes and drama workshops.

St David's Diocesan Council for Social Responsibility – Plant Dewi Project - applied for £9,933 to start a sustainable bicycle maintenance scheme which will enable them to participate in a time bank credit programme. The men in the scheme will have access to the donated bikes.

Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum CiC gets a grant for £4,899 to hold four training events and Coastal Challenge days for businesses, schools and the community to protect and care for their local environment.

Puncheston Recreational Development Committee will use its £2,500 grant to bring members of their community of Puncheston together to help reduce loneliness. Lisa Devonald, Secretary said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded £2,500 to help continue to support our local community in Puncheston.

Being provided funding for a series of community trips and events which will be open to Puncheston residents of all ages over this coming year will give everyone the opportunity to be together outside the village.”