THE Ruardean Carnival committee has awarded grants worth £2,000 to community projects.

The presentation of the cheques took place at The Malt Shovel, Ruardean, where all of the planning meetings for the carnival are held. This year's carnival on Saturday August 11, with the theme Ruardean at the Olympics, will hopefully raise further funds to benefit the local community.

Nine local organisations received funding including Ruardean Rainbows, for camping equipment, and Ruardean Acorns, who need to raise enough money to refurbish their current premises. They made a good start to their fund-raising by receiving a grant of £250.

Ruardean at the Olympics is perfect for celebrating the London 2012 Olympics. Other fund-raising events organised by the carnival committee include bingo nights, a curry and karaoke night and a 'Big Lunch' coinciding with the Queen's Diamond Jubilee on Sunday June 3.

Carnival co-chairperson Lara Craddock said: "It is great to support local organisations within the community, but this is only possible with continued support of the carnival itself. We are looking forward to another successful day on August 11 with more events and attractions than ever before!"