THE latest announcement of Millennium Festival Awards for All grants, which brings the amount distributed to community groups in the South West to more than £5 million, had West Devon and East Cornwall celebrating last week.

A total of £835,856 to 312 groups will fund the arts, heritage, sports projects and events across the region.

Bere Ferrers Parochial Church Council was given £3,690 to enable it to provide kitchen facilities at the church hall.

And Lydford Parish Council was also on the list and has £780 to spend on a range of activities to mark the millennium.

Local primary school children will be involved in designing a stained glass window and a millennium book, compiled by local residents, will contain photos and text about all households.

The village is also planning to hold a concert with theatre and music.

Nursery children who attend the Bridestowe, Lydford and Stourton Pre-School will benefit from a grant of £603 which will go towards the purchase of new play and learning equipment.

East Cornwall did particularly well in this latest round with Latchley Millennium Group getting the maximum £5,000 award. Latchley got off to an early start planning its millennium celebrations and the grant will fund a village history book and pageant as well as many other activities and events.

The Calstock Singers are seeking funds for a production called Song of the Tamar and a £3,333 award will be used to have professional input into the writing, production, set-building and to publicise the event.

Tea dances as well as other events to extend activities for members of the Civil Service Retirement Fellowship North and East Cornwall branch will now take place through August and September thanks to an award of £1,500.

Kate Sclater, senior awards officer, said: 'This award scheme has taken lottery money to a wide range of local community groups for the first time.

'The response from groups in the South West region has been marvellous and we are absolutely delighted that the good work these groups do will continue to be supported when the scheme continues in July as "Awards for All".