A LEADING regional builder has extended a popular community cash giveaway scheme for another year.

Urmston-based Persimmon Homes North West is now urging community groups, charities and good causes across Trafford to continue applying to its Community Champions scheme.

The fund was initially launched in March 2015 and was due to run for one year to support grass roots activities that improve the quality of life for local people.

The scheme invites groups and charities to bid for cash from a £720,000 national fund, with two donations of up to £1,000 being made locally every month on a match-funding basis. The donations are made across Persimmon Homes’ 28 regions, as well as from its Space4 timber frame business and from the PLC head office.

Neil Follows, managing director of Persimmon Homes North West, said: “All we ask is that the group or charity has already worked hard to raise money themselves, and we will then match this effort with funding of up to £1,000. It is also really simple to apply for, with groups and charities invited to visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity and complete an online application form.”

During the past 12 months, Persimmon Homes North West has handed out a total of £24,000 to 12 different charities including football clubs, primary schools, youth groups, hospices and women’s charities.