South of Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has today welcomed news that a number of organisations and charities across Dumfries and Galloway have received grants from the National Lottery Fund.

Two organisations will benefit from over £15,000 of funding to help various projects over the next year.

The charities are Castle Douglas Community Centre which will receive £9,200 and Dumfries and Galloway Third Sector Interface which will receive £7,500.

The funding comes from National Lottery Awards for All Scotland which makes grants from £300 to £10,000 with funds raised by the National Lottery.

Speaking after the announcement Colin Smyth MSP said: “This funding is a real boost for local groups in the area.

Lottery Funding can be vital to organisations and allow them to carry out some hugely important work within our communities.

Dumfries and Galloway has a positive record when it comes to developing capacity within communities to run local facilities so carrying out a feasibility study into the viability of community ownership of Castle Douglas Community Centre could result in a positive long term future for the centre.

I welcome the news that the National Lottery sees the value these organisations play within the area and look forward to seeing what I am sure will be some fantastic outcomes for all”.

A National Lottery Awards for All spokesperson said, “This funding will help a range of arts, sports and community groups from across Scotland to bring their projects ideas to life. If you, and your local community group, would like to join them in celebrating a National Lottery award, you can find out how to apply by visiting www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/scotland.

Below is a selected list of organisations which will receive funding in Dumfries and Galloway. For full list please see: www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/awardsforallscotland

Castle Douglas Community Centre

£9,200

This group will use the funding to carry out a feasibility study to establish the viability of acquiring ownership of the community centre from the local authority.

Dumfries and Galloway Third Sector Interface

£7,500

This group will use the funding to deliver a varied programme of events to trustees and volunteers from third sector organisations across different communities in Dumfries and Galloway.

Z1 Girls Group

£9,109

This group was established to provide opportunities for young women residing in Girvan and the 7 South Carrick rural villages to participate in a broad range of activities. The funding will be used for a dance instructor, dance performance costs and a trip to the thea