A DONATION of £1,980 from the Co-operative's Community Fund has helped Lamerton Village Hall buy an audio system in addition to 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.

Gerald Cramp, from Lamerton Parish Hall, 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.'

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 the chance to thank members for shopping with us, but because so many people choose to give something back to local communities.'