A NEW batch of grants are open to community buildings local to Haverigg II and Mean Moor wind farms.

Thrive Renewables has launched the fourth round of its Community Benefit Programme.

The renewable energy company will award grants of up to £4,000 to local groups for simple and effective energy efficiency improvements to community buildings.

Adrian Warman, Operations Manager at Thrive, said: "Implementing energy efficiency improvements is a great way of cutting carbon emissions and raising awareness of sustainable energy use throughout the community.

"This programme is an important part of our commitment to supporting the local communities we operate in."

This is the fourth Community Funding Programme round since 2015.

To date, the programme has awarded 21 grants totalling £63,300 to 17 community groups.

Kirksanton Village Hall near Thrive’s Haverigg II windfarm in Cumbria was underused due to poor lighting and heating.

Thrive awarded the centre £3,000 in 2018 to install LED lighting, water heaters and insulation for water pipes.

The parish council now meets there, along with community groups like the ‘stitchers’ – a sewing group.

Helen of Kirksanton Village Hall said: "It has meant the group can sit around and chat as well as sew, because no one is having to move about to get the best light.

"It has also encouraged the start of a new sewing group who will be making quilts for new-born babies.

"Thank you very much for helping us to achieve so much towards the refurbishment of the halls.”

Nationally, Thrive Renewables' fourth round Community Benefit Programme provides £30,000.