SALTASH Town Council has pledged more than £13,000 to local groups as part of its new Community Chest Fund. A total of 19 community projects have secured funding of £13,100 from the council's fund for projects ranging from craft materials for a toddlers club to support for a new junior orchestra. 'We were most impressed by the quality and range of the applications,' said Saltash mayor David Carter. 'The new funding will support new initiatives, such as the new Saltash Women's Information Support and Health Group, and also allow established groups to expand their activities. 'The volunteers who give their time to these organisations are often the unsung heroes of our community, and I am delighted that the town council has had the opportunity to recognise their work and give their efforts a boost. 'As ambassador for youth in Caradon, I was particularly pleased to see that several existing clubs will be using the funding to expand their youth activities.' Successful applicants include Burraton Community Centre, Burraton Male Voice Choir, Churchtown Farm Nature Reserve, Forder Community and Conservation Association, Livewire Youth Project, Saltash Anglican/Methodist Players, Saltash Bowling Club, CAB, Saltash Gateway Club, SHADO, Saltash Heritage, Saltash Live at Home Scheme, Saltash Waterfront Residents' Association, Saltash Women's Information, Support and Help Group, St Stephens Borough Cricket Club, Saltash Wesley Toddlers Club, Tamar Protection Society and St Stephens School – applying on behalf of four Saltash primary schools. Grants range from £300-£1,000, with the average being around £650. Only one application was rejected, although there were several that have been invited to re-apply with more information, and others who will receive offers of a grant lower than they had requested. Another £11,900 remains in the pot for the next round of applications, which must be in by May 31. The council hopes to be able to offer similar levels of support in 2007/8 and 2008/9, if funds permit and the scheme proves successful during the pilot year. l More information and application forms are available from the council on Saltash (01752) 847623.