TWELVE Stretford community groups have been awarded almost £30,000 between them to help run community projects.

Stretford Community Panel and Trafford Housing Trust set the £29,000 funding aside for individuals and groups to help improve their community and invited residents to put forward their ideas on how the money should be spent.

The projects which were awarded the money had to give a brief presentation at Stretford Leisure Centre on October 6, and then faced a public vote of over 70 residents.

All ability cycling group, Trafford Wheelers, was awarded the maximum possible funding of £3,000 by the panel, which will help pay for track fees to ensure the group can keep running next year.

Helen Hines, Trafford Wheelers project manager, said: “It was a really good event and great chance for us to explain to people who aren’t aware of what we do a bit about Trafford Wheelers and the benefits we bring to the community.”

Graham and Carol Greathead, from Moss Park and District Allotment Society, who were awarded £2,400 after bidding for the first time, said they were overwhelmed by the public support.

Jan Howell, chair of the Stretford Community Panel, said: “We had a fantastic turnout, with members of the community voting for groups to set up or continue the good work they are doing.

“It was lovely to see so many projects get the funding they asked for, and what it means to them.”

Wardle Close Tenants and Residents Association, Friends of Victoria Park, Communtiy Support Plus Ltd. and Strike Soccer School were also awarded grants.