Haltwhistle's charity shops have announced a £40,000 grant fund for community projects.

The bookshop and general shop were saved from closure in 2023 by the Haltwhistle Partnership, who have generated surplus income from donations.

This money will now be used to support local good causes.

Community groups and young people can apply for grants for projects that 'benefit the communities of Haltwhistle and its surrounding parishes'.

The Haltwhistle Partnership, which took over the running of the bookshop and general shop last year, has allocated the funds after a successful first year of trading.

Claire Heaviside, shop volunteer,  said: "The shop volunteers have worked hard and we are delighted to be able to give back to the community as a result of their dedication and the generosity of donations."

Grants will range from up to £1,500 for small projects to up to £10,000 for larger projects.

There is also a fund for young people up to the age of 21.

Alex Kinsey, vice-chair of Haltwhistle Partnership, said: "We know that there are a lot of people putting a great deal of effort into helping Haltwhistle thrive and this fund offers a great way for them to try out brilliant new ideas.

"We hope local groups will take up the opportunity this new fund provides to help deliver grass-roots projects making Haltwhistle an even better place to live, work and visit."

Volunteers have been involved in setting up the fund and will participate, alongside Haltwhistle Partnership management, on the awards panel.

For further information and to apply, visit www.haltwhistle.org/communityshopsfund.

Julie Gibbon, chair of the partnership, said: "We already make a significant contribution to the community with projects such as the Memory Café, Older People’s Drop in, Lunch Club, Haltwhistle Growing Together, Community Gardeners and Zigzag Days.

"The community shops are an asset to the town.

"Along with the recycling of unwanted goods at affordable prices, there are volunteering opportunities and a space for community conversations to be had.

"This fund is the icing on the cake."

Applications for the first round of funding opened on September 16 and will close on November 15.

A second round will open in March 2025.