SHOPPERS and customers at the Co-operative stores and branches in Tavistock have helped three local groups secure a share of £1,000.

The Co-operative introduced a coin scheme earlier this year and asked members to place a plastic disc in one of three collection boxes dedicated to different causes each time they shopped, with the £1,000 prize fund now being split proportionately between them. The vote took place in the Co-operative stores on Brook Street and Market Street.

More than 5,000 votes were cast in total, with Tavistock Area Support Services taking the top spot with 40% of the votes, meaning they will scoop £400 of the prize fund. Tavistock Memory Café and the Triangle Drop In Centre sharing the remaining cash, scooping £350 and £250 respectively.

Lis Spencer, membership officer for The Co-operative, said: 'I'm completely overwhelmed by the phenomenal response to the "Your Community Vote" scheme in Tavistock and it clearly shows our members share our vision of supporting the local community.  

'I'm thrilled for all three groups, who I'm sure will feel the benefit donation, as well as the knowledge that they are so well supported by shoppers in the local area.'

 The Co-operative also offers local groups the opportunity to secure grants via its Community Fund, a pot of money accumulated by member customers donating all or part of their annual dividend to good causes in the area.

For more information about the Community Fund visit http://www.co-operative.coop/communityfund">www.co-operative.coop/communityfund or by calling 01884 266 892.