EASTCOTT Community Organisation are celebrating this week after receiving a £750 grant from the Wiltshire Community Foundation.

The funds will enable the popular community afternoon teas at Savernake Street Social Hall to continue.

The group hosts the tea parties every two weeks on Friday afternoons, with the aim of bringing neighbours together over a cup of tea and a slice of cake. Those living in or around Eastcott, who are retired or not working full-time, are welcome to attend.

Caroline Davies-Khan, chair of Eastcott Community Organisation, the group of volunteer residents that manage the community centre, is delighted with the funding news.

She said: ‘‘The teas are a lovely way for people to get together every couple of weeks, and this grant will enable us to pay for speakers and entertainment, as well as the cost associated with the hall and refreshments. It is a real boost, and enables us to confidently plan activities for the months ahead.’’

At each group meeting there is a speaker or some entertainment to start, and then a chance to chat, share news, and find out what else is happening locally.

The teas started in 2013 and have become a popular event for many local residents. Entertainment so far has included talks on history, beekeeping and wildlife, visits from birds of prey, snakes and lizards, as well as musical performances and art sessions.

Heidi Yorke, programme director at Wiltshire Community Foundation said “Our small grants provide essential support to local organisations who work directly with people in our communities, and we are delighted to be able to support events like the community afternoon teas.”

Wiltshire Community Foundation has been supporting voluntary groups and charitable organisations across Wiltshire and Swindon for over 40 years, providing money and support where people need it most.

The community afternoon teas are held on Friday afternoons every two weeks between 2-4pm at Savernake Street Social Hall, Savernake Street. The next tea will be held on Friday, April 1.

For more information contact eastcottcommunity@yahoo.co.uk or call 07599256969.