A DONATION of £1,980 from the Co-operative's Community Fund has helped Lamerton Village Hall buy an audio system as well as a new stage, lighting and curtains.

The community fund is created by members of the Co-operative Group who elect to donate all or part of their twice-yearly dividend payments directly to the scheme. The funds are then shared with local community projects and groups across the country.

Treasurer at Lamerton Parish Hall. Gerald Cramp, said: 'We are extremely grateful for this grant from The Co-operative — as the hall is so well used by the local community, the improvements to the stage, curtains and lighting are long overdue. The hall was built in 2006/7 and was always meant to have a stage, lighting and curtains but we couldn't afford it at the time.

'Now with this grant and others, we are able to finish the hall.'

Gerald said it is hoped that the new equipment will be in place by Christmas so that it can be used by Lamerton Primary School and the Tavistock Musical Theatre Company.

Lis Spencer, from the Co-operative's Membership team for the area, said: 'Because our members own the business, they get a share in any of the profits we make. It's a scheme we're very proud of, not only because it gives us a chance to thank members for shopping with us, but because so many people choose to give something back to local communities.'

Co-operative members receive a payment twice a year based on the points they earn when they trade at any of the group's businesses.

'There is around £600,000 available in this region, each year, from the community fund, and we welcome applications from local groups and projects for £100 to £2,000,' said Lis.

Community fund applications are available online at http://www.co-operative.coop/communityfund">www.co-operative.coop/communityfund or by calling 0844 2624001.