THE Community Foundation has called on businesses in Trafford to make one very simple New Year's resolution - get giving and give locally.

The Greater Manchester charity distributed £354,848 in grants to voluntary and community groups in Trafford last year, but only seven per cent of this money came from private business donations.

Nick Massey, chief executive of the charity, said: '"The need for more local businesses to get involved has never been greater.

"With Government funding streams, such as the Local Network Fund for Young People, coming to an end, we have a massive shortfall to make up this year, just to provide the same level of funding as last year to the hundreds of voluntary groups running across the region.

"Astonishingly, only approximately 4% of money raised in Greater Manchester stays in Greater Manchester - we want to see that percentage increase, as we can make sure that money from local businesses is injected in an effective and transparent way directly into the communities where it is most needed."

Businesses wanting to speak to the Community Foundation for advice on giving locally should call 0161 214 0959.