THE anniversary celebration for RAF Harrowbeer taking place next month, has been given a funding boost by supermarket the Co-operative.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the opening of RAF Harrowbeer, also known as the Old Aerodrome at Yelverton.

In celebration of the anniversary RAF Harrowbeer 70th Anniversary Committee will be putting on a community event to commemorate the opening of the former airfield and the history of its vital role during world war two over the weekend of August 13 and 14.

The anniversary committee received a donation of £500 from the Co-operative Community Fund.

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

Andrew North, regional secretary for the Co-operative in the South West, said: '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.

'There is around £200,000 available in this region each year from the community fund, and we welcome applications from local groups and projects for £100 to £2,000.'

The Co-operative Group's donation is being used to provide music for the weekend celebration.