A FUND that breathes fresh life into Leiston and Saxmundham has spent over £42,000 on a variety of projects – and still wants to pay out more.A total of 56 groups or charities have received funding over the past five years for projects ranging from improving lighting to encouraging young people to broaden their experience in different walks of life.

A FUND that breathes fresh life into Leiston and Saxmundham has spent over £42,000 on a variety of projects – and still wants to pay out more.

A total of 56 groups or charities have received funding over the past five years for projects ranging from improving lighting to encouraging young people to broaden their experience in different walks of life.

One of the schemes funded has literally been a lifesaver – as it paid for two new defibrillators and people to be trained to use the medical equipment.

The aim of the Heritage Coast Community Development Fund is to support projects that will improve or develop new facilities, services or activities.

It is administered by Suffolk Coastal and supported by the government's Single Regeneration Budget as well as donations from parish councils and the owners of Sizewell nuclear power stations.

"This fund is helping to support the work of local community groups and town and parish councils to improve the quality of life for residents in the Saxmundham and Leiston area," said John Perry, Suffolk Coastal cabinet member for economic development.

"It is an excellent way for local groups to tap into money which is there specifically to help them.

"Grants of up to £1,500 are still available and I hope that more groups in the Leiston and Saxmundham area will come forward with projects that will make a real difference in the community."

Among the initiatives already funded are new street lights for Leiston and a project involving Suffolk Coastal, CYDS (Young People Taking Action), Dance East and Ipswich Town Football Club which introduced young footballers to dance and dance enthusiasts to football.

Anne Patterson, a member of the steering group administering the fund said: "This fund has made so many positive differences to the area, benefiting young and old alike."

Grants can be received up to £1,500 but have to be matched from other sources. The money must be for new facilities and cannot be used to maintain existing ones or be given for something which has already been done.

n Any community group wanting more information or an application form should contact Laura Hack at Suffolk Coastal on 01394 444472 or email her on laura.hack@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk