BRIDPORT & District Citizens Advice is saying 'cheers' after it was awarded £1,000 by a brewer.

Hall & Woodhouse has announced the grants it has dished out this year through its Community Chest Awards.

It has awarded more than £50,000 to 35 local causes.

One of these is the charity Bridport CAB which provides free, independent and impartial advice to people in the area. The grant will be used towards volunteer expenses and training.

Lucinda Gray of the Blandford-based brewer said: “In a year of such challenge, we’re proud to be helping others make a difference to their communities. We understand and have heard first-hand from the charities, how necessary the grants are for the survival of these local causes.

“The donations are going to a real mix of charities across the south; from youth services to mental health support, to those that specialise in facilities for people with disabilities, to free computer access for those who need it most.”

The annual awards ceremony took place virtually this year and included an online beer and cheese tasting session led by Mark Woodhouse. All winners and judges received a ‘Dorset Dozen’ beer box, a selection of characterful and crafted Badger ales, along with the recommended selection of accompanying cheeses, so that guests could participate in the event online.

Applications will be open for the 2021 Community Chest awards in March, where voluntary groups can request funding ranging from £300 to £5,000, to help them achieve their aims.

Visit www.hall-woodhouse.co.uk for more information.