Good causes in Barrhead and Neilston are to receive a welcome windfall from a leading retailer.

Cash from the Co-op’s Local Community Fund is raised by customers who are store members when they buy selected own-brand products and services.

This year, the local organisations picked to benefit are ERA (East Renfrewshire ASN Parent Action Group), community growing project Incredible Edible Neilston and Neilston Wasps Youth Football Club.

Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community and member participation at Co-op, said: “The cost-of-living crisis is making it incredibly challenging for many local causes.

“Our Local Community Fund promotes the development of stronger, more resilient and fairer communities.”

ERA will put their cash towards the running of three groups – ERA Juniors, ERA Teens and ERA Outdoors – which benefit children and young people with additional support needs, as well as their families.

Funding for Incredible Edible Neilston will be used to help create thriving community gardens by purchasing supplies for the group’s growing sites.

Neilston Wasps, meanwhile, will be able to buy football kits and equipment for their community club, which has more than 300 young players aged between six and 17, including boys and girls of all abilities.

Rebecca added: “Our community groups and local organisations are providing valuable services and support to people at a time when they need it most.

“Our Co-op membership is a powerful way for people to make a difference simply by shopping at Co-op.”