A community group near Petersfield is one of ten causes across the south east to receive funding from South East Water’s Community Chest Fund.
Stroud Village Hall and Residents Association’s portion of the £20,000 will be used to deliver and maintain a community garden for village residents, particularly by those who live in accommodation with little, or no gardens or outside space. The garden will provide a space for residents to mix, share stories and learn new skills from more established residents who have grown up in a rural location.
Katy Lace, hall manager, said: “The trustees of Stroud Village Hall were delighted to receive a £2,000 grant for the hall's community garden project.
“When we started the community garden we were hoping to create a green space at the heart of the village which is accessible to all and gives local people the chance to spend time with one another in the great outdoors.
“This grant will make a real difference and we plan to use the funds for various projects, including creating a 'mini-orchard' of fruit trees and several raised fruit and vegetable beds for local children to grow their own produce. Thank you South East Water!”
More than 100 applications were received this year and the decision on where to place the money was taken by a panel of eight South East Water employees from all parts of the business, all with an interest in raising money for good causes.
Tanya Sephton, South East Water customer services director, said: “We are delighted that our Community Chest Fund will be contributing to such a wonderful project, and help bring the community together in a place of nature.