A STROUD based community group which aims to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable living in the Five Valleys has been awarded almost £10,000 of Lottery funding.

Transition Stroud, which was founded in 2006 to combat climate change, has been granted the money through the Lottery’s Awards for All programme.

It is intended to assist the group with the development of a number of local projects focusing on community activism and partnerships.

Among the five projects currently being worked on by the group which will benefit from the funding are DIY workshops, a programme to promote sustainable energy in schools and a new website advertising events in Stroud via Twitter postings (hubstroud.org.uk).

The money will also help to support an Edible Gardens initiative, which is looking at ways to increase free local edible food.

Martin Whiteside, a Green Party district councillor who represents the Thrupp ward, said: "This is fantastic news and a recognition of the excellent things that Transition Stroud is achieving.

"This money will help keep Stroud at the forefront of efforts to create a fair, strong and sustainable community better able to deal with the uncertainties ahead."

Gail Bradbrook, one of the volunteer directors of Transition Stroud, said: "It’s a great time for people to get involved in Transition Stroud. We have many ways that volunteers can make a contribution."

For more information visit: www.transitionstroud.org.uk