Local community groups in Shepton Mallet have been awarded grants totalling over £9,000 by the town council.

The funding, allocated following a nomination period that closed in March, aims to support a range of initiatives and essential services within the area.

A spokesperson for Shepton Mallet Town Council highlighted the importance of these grants, stating: "We recognise the vital role local groups and organisations play in our community. Without additional financial support, many would face significant challenges in delivering their crucial work."

The council operates two rounds of grant funding annually, providing both one-off sums and longer-term service-level agreements. The latest recipients include:

• Amulet Centre Limited: Funding will enable the volunteer-led group to host a "Summer of Cinema" at the Amulet, screening films every weekend during the school holidays as part of their efforts to bring the building back into community use.
• Literally Shepton: The volunteers behind the annual literary festival will use the funding to establish a book club in Shepton Mallet.
• Men's Shed: The grant awarded to the Men's Shed will contribute to the purchase of an extractor system for their workshop in Shepton Mallet, benefiting individuals of all ages who gather for companionship, activities, and skill-sharing.
• Shepton Artist/SMart: The collective of local artists will utilise the grant to stage their annual arts exhibition, showcasing the talent within Shepton Mallet.
• Shepton Mallet Community Woodland: The volunteer-run charity, which maintains the local community woodland, will use the grant for new tools and volunteer training.
• Somerset Prostate Support Association: The grant will support free drop-in prostate testing sessions for men at Croscombe village hall throughout May.
• Tadley Acres Garden: The volunteer group responsible for the community garden in Tadley Acres will use the funding to purchase essential gardening equipment.
• We Hear You: The local cancer counselling charity, which operates in several nearby towns including Shepton Mallet, has received funding to support its counselling services within the town.

This latest round of grants underscores Shepton Mallet Town Council's commitment to supporting the diverse and vital work of community groups within the town.