A REGIONAL builder is to continue its community cash giveaway scheme for another year.

Persimmon Homes South Midlands is now urging community groups, charities and good causes across Worcestershire and Herefordshire to continue applying to its Community Champions scheme. The fund was initially launched in March 2015 and was due to run for one year to support grassroots activities that improve the quality of life for local people.

The scheme invites local groups and charities to bid for cash from a £720,000 national fund, with two donations of up to £1,000 being made locally every month on a match-funding basis.

Andy Peters, managing director of Persimmon Homes South Midlands, said: "Our Community Champions scheme has certainly struck a chord with many charities and worthy causes, and we are delighted to announce that it will continue for another year. We hope that our funding of £24,000 for the next 12 months can make a huge difference across our region. We want to hear from everyone as we’re determined to donate our money where it will help the most. All we ask is that the group or charity has already worked hard to raise money themselves, and we will then match this effort with funding of up to £1,000. It is also really simple to apply for, with groups and charities invited to visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity and complete an online application form.”

Organisations helped by Persimmon Homes South Midlands during the past 12 months include Pershore Sea Cadets, Worcester PowerChair Football Club, Pebworth Village Hall, Pershore High School and The Shakespeare Hospice.