THREE community schemes in North and East Yorkshire have been given thousands of pounds-worth of grants to help with upcoming projects.

Over £600,000 has been awarded by WREN to 21 worthwhile community projects throughout Yorkshire and Humber, following the latest decision making round.

WREN is a not-for-profit business which awards grants to community, environment and heritage projects across the UK from funds donated by Waste Recycling Groups to the Landfill Communities Fund.

Pocklington Town Council was given £29,854 towards the construction of a play facility within the Broadmanor Estate.

Town clerk Richard Wood, said the overall project will cost £40,000 and should start in May.

He said: “We are all pleased about the grant, we’ve been trying for 12 years to get a play area here.”

Groundwork North Yorkshire Selby has been given £8,900 towards the creation of a new play area within the disused recreation area in the village of Birkin.

Peter Murphy, operations director at Groundwork, said that the money is vital to make the current playing field safer for kids.

“We are absolutely delighted that we have received this funding, together with the money from Eggborough power station, we should be able to begin in spring,” he said.

Sutton-on-Derwent village hall committee received £6,886 towards the work on the hall’s flat roof as part of their sustainability project.

John Newlove, member of the village committee, said: “The grant will help us to replace the leaking roof, so the hall can be used for years to come.”