MEMBERS of the Co-operative Group recently helped two South West organisations to carry on the good work they do in the community.

Okehampton Community Recreation Association received £2,000 to go towards the cost of instructors. Lew Trenchard Pre-School received £399 towards building a new shed on the grounds. 

The groups received the cash boost from the Co-operative's Community Fund, a pot of money accumulated by member customers opting to donate all or part of their annual dividend to good causes in the area. The money is distributed by the Co-operative's local area committees.

John Wood, from the Cornwall North, East, West Devon and Somerset said: 'Supporting local communities has been an inherent part of the Co-operative's values and principles since the very beginning of the Co-operative Movement.

'We are particularly proud of our Community Fund, as it demonstrates how the generosity of our members can make a real difference in their local area, and now we have stores and branches in every postal area of the UK it makes it all the more relevant.'