THE CO-OP has launched its Local Community Fund project, which supports three charities through money raised from carrier bag sales and from 1% on own brand sales from people who have co-op membership cards.

Chosen as the three local charities which will be supported during this six month project were the Ockment Centre, the North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team and Okehampton District Community Transport Group.

Co-op customers can opt to support one or more of the charities. Any money raised that has not been allocated to a specific charity is split equally between the three. The Co-op has also reintroduced its dividend payments so members get 5% on co-op brand shopping back for themselves.

Carole Ward of the Ockment Centre said: ‘With the money raised from the Local Community Fund we hope to make extra renovations to our buildings, including much needed new windows.’

Sue Wonnacott, co-ordinator for Okehampton District Community Transport Group, said: ‘We intend to use the money to continue the work we do involving local transport and for subsidising lifestyle trips.’

The money raised by Co-op customers for North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team will maintain the service it provides as well as go towards training team members.