Nearly £10,000 has been awarded to local organisations across Shepton Mallet in the latest round of grant funding, with groups benefitting from much-needed support to continue their work in the community.

The November grants round, which closed earlier this month, saw funding provided to a range of organisations, from volunteer-led projects to those offering vital services.

The funding is designed to support both one-off initiatives and ongoing projects through service-level agreements.

A spokesperson said: "We recognise the importance of local groups and organisations in the community and know that without additional funding, many would struggle to deliver their essential services. This funding helps them to continue making a positive impact."

Groups awarded funding this round include:

• Cynet Majorettes: Funding will be used to upgrade equipment for this group, which provides a safe and welcoming space for girls aged six and above to learn dance routines and perform at public events such as carnivals and fetes.
• Royal Bath and West Field to Food Learning Day: Aimed at educating young people on the journey from farm to plate, this project promotes the importance of a healthy diet and an appreciation of farming. Funding will help extend the project's reach to more children.
• Shepton Mallet Community Fridge: This volunteer-led initiative has saved over 25 tonnes of food in two years, providing free food to around 200 users daily. The funding will help keep the fridges and freezers operational.
• Shepton Mallet Local History Group: Funds will support the creation of a new display at the Sorting Office on Town Street, highlighting the rich history of the area.
• Blood Bikes: This charity, which delivers life-saving medical supplies across Shepton Mallet and beyond, has received funding for equipment replacement on their motorbikes.
• Strawberry Line East Group: Funding will enable the purchase of equipment to maintain the hedges and pathways of the multi-user path in and around Shepton Mallet.
• Shepton Walks: Dedicated to encouraging walking and its health benefits, the group has been awarded funds for a new bench on Windsor Hill Lane.
• Make the Sunshine – Blue Plaques – Change Makers: This project, co-created with local primary schools and older adults, will produce a dance and spoken word performance exploring historical figures from Shepton Mallet. Funding will help deliver the project, boosting confidence and wellbeing through creative arts.
• Somerset Bus Partnership: With no dedicated Shepton Mallet group currently in place, funding has been awarded to help establish a local group to ensure the community's voice is heard in decisions about bus routes and timetables.

Organisations interested in future funding opportunities can find more information about the Grants Scheme here.