WAITROSE in Warminster has given more than £3,600 to 11 charities and organisations in the area as part of a scheme to help groups in the community.

The money was handed over in a cheque presentation at the store on Station Road, after the funds had been collected since December as part of the store's green token scheme.

Customers are given a green token after shopping at the store and can choose between three charities every month to vote for. All the charities are nominated locally by the community.

Organisations which received a donation included Jacob’s Ladder (£308), West Wiltshire Sailing Club (£470), Advance (£392), Victim Support (£268), Wessex Netball Club (£253), Fairfield Farm College, Dilton Marsh (£353), Wylye Valley Disabled Children’s Riding Charity (£419), Larkrise Riding for the Disabled Association (£273), Friends of St George's School, Warminster (£252), New Close Community School, Warminster (£350) and Sutton Veny Village Hall (£278).

Pam Parsons, partner co-ordination manager at the store, said: “We have supported lots of charities within the community and want to reach out to more charities to enter our green token scheme and raise much needed funds for local charities.

“Our customer support with our token scheme has been outstanding.

“The donations really make a difference to local communities, and help shops to engage with their local communities, from supporting youth sports to providing care for people suffering with life threatening illnesses.”

Jo Hitchins, assistant section manager added: “Our second year has been successful, community awareness is growing and our continued support to the community is making a difference.”

Tina Pagett, principal at Fairfield Farm College which received £353, said: “We care for young adults with learning disabilities and the money will go towards raising funds for an outdoor multi-use games area.

“It’s very difficult for them to engage in sport and activities but this will allow them to get out and experience this as part of their healthy lives.”