SPORTS clubs, children s clubs and parish councils are among the organisations benefiting from grants issued by North Hertfordshire District Council. More than £16,000 was made available to 25 organisations at a meeting last week of the council s southern

SPORTS clubs, children's clubs and parish councils are among the organisations benefiting from grants issued by North Hertfordshire District Council.

More than £16,000 was made available to 25 organisations at a meeting last week of the council's southern rural area committee.

Grants ranging from £160 to £1,000 have been awarded to community and charity groups.

Cllr Tricia Gibbs, portfolio holder for community engagement, said: "The organisations we help fulfil vital roles in their communities and the council will continue to give as much support as we can to help them maintain and improve their activities."

A major beneficiary was the village of Ickleford, which gained three grants of £1,000.

Ickleford Cricket Club got money to replace 10-year-old outdoor nets, which will benefit the 40 children who train there.

Ickleford Sports and Recreation Club's grant will help fund renovation of the building, while the other £1,000 will fund a parish plan, consulting residents about the shape of the village in the future.

Knebworth gained a £1,000 grant for the same purpose.

Elsewhere, groups supporting children and the elderly have done particularly well, with the 50 plus friendship club gaining £500, and a new youth shelter at Codicote gaining a similar amount.

Other recipients included sports clubs, scouts and guides, youth groups and a number of parish councils.