MANY groups turned up for the launch of a new community fund to support not-for-profit organisations in Cockermouth.

The Metalcraft Cockermouth Community Fund has been set up by Metalcraft, which manufactures products for Sellafield’s decommissioning process.

£500 per quarter will be made available to community groups and not-for-profit organisations to support specific projects. Organisations will also be able to apply for practical support from the company, delivered by apprentices on its award-winning scheme.

More than 30 people representing over 14 town organisations attended the launch at Cockermouth Town Hall.

Stephen Buttriss, sales manager at Metalcraft, gave guests an overview of how the new fund will work.

“We were delighted with the turnout for the launch of the Metalcraft Cockermouth Community Fund," said Steven.

"The evening was a fantastic opportunity to find out more about the wealth of good work going on across the community and we’re looking forward to receiving the first applications and being able to start work supporting these worthwhile organisations.”

Application forms can be found at www.metalcraft.co.uk/community-fund.

Applications are open until March 31 and will be reviewed by a panel consisting of representatives from the council, business organisations and Metalcraft.