FOUR charities in Swindon received a boost thanks to The Midcounties Co-operative who have donated more than £7,500 from carrier bag sales.

The funds are part of the society’s regional communities strategy, which sees members and colleagues get together to provide support for local community groups through volunteering and fundraising initiatives.

Dean Mason, regional communities ambassador at Midcounties in Swindon, said: “We are committed to making a difference in the communities in which we operate and the carrier bag fund is a great way for us to give something back to a variety of worthy local causes.

“All of the groups we’ve supported play a pivotal role within the community and we look forward to continuing our work with them and other similar groups through our carrier bag fund.”

One of the charities receiving a donation was Wiltshire Treehouse, which offers bereavement support to children, young people and their families after they have lost a loved one.

They have been allocated £3,495 which will help pay for advice and support, one to one assistance and peer support groups for children, their families and young people up to the age of 25. It will help the charity to widen its service in Wiltshire.

Swindon Carers Centre was also given a lift with a £3,340 share of the pot. The organisation supports 21,000 carers living in and around Swindon and it will use the cash to organise activities and outings to give carers some much needed respite.

Longleaze Pre-school in Royal Wootton Bassett and Highworth Community Centre which opened seven years ago at the former Northview Primary School were also given cash.