FOUR local groups were among six to receive grants through the Nottinghamshire EnviroGrant scheme ­— the Reduce, Reuse, Recycling Fund run by Veolia, Nottinghamshire County Council’s waste contractor.

Designed to support projects that inspire people to think differently about waste and resources, the fund offers grants to not-for-profit groups, schools and charities that are committed to helping the county to reduce, reuse and recycle.

Blidworth Men In Sheds (above) received £650 for new workshop equipment, including a band saw.

The woodwork and socialising community group has around 50 members who work with recycled or donated material to create new products, ranging from toys to kitchen equipment to walking sticks.

“We reclaim as many tools and machines as we can but old machinery can be dangerous. It is a delight to be presented with new state-of-the-art machinery and we are very grateful to Veolia,” said volunteer David Ives.

The Mill Adventure Base at King’s Mill Reservoir was presented with £683.82 for recycling bins.

Asquith Primary School, Mansfield, received £116.76 towards the set-up costs of recycling crafts.

A new after-school club is being set up to encourage children to reuse their packaging by teaching them origami techniques to turn it into new items.

Tin Hat Centre Community Café, Selston, was awarded £435.36 to start a reusable cup scheme called Boomerang.

Funding through the Reduce, Reuse, Recycling Fund can be granted for a variety of projects and activities, including workshops, practical equipment, education and awareness raising. It is for projects that encourage people to think about their waste as a resource.

To apply for a grant go to www.veolia.co.uk/nottinghamshire/envirogrant