COMMUNITY groups celebrated a funding boost at this year’s Airbus and Leader Community Awards.

The proud winner – taking £7,000 – was Chirk Community Forum, who will purchase all-inclusive play equipment for all children across North Wales.

Cllr Gareth Baines, on behalf of the forum, said: “We’re delighted to be here. It means we will be the first community in North Wales to provide inclusive play equipment for disabled children. It’s for residents across the whole of North Wales and will provide a huge boost for disabled children.”

Ten lucky finalists across Flintshire, Wrexham and Chester, received a share of £20,000.

In partnership with the Leader, sister paper of the Advertizer, Airbus gave £1,000 each to Brymbo Boxing Club, St David’s High School, Flintshire Do It, North Wales Nappy Collaborative, Broughton War Memorial, Handmade for Dementia and Proud Mary’s.

Peter Buckley, head trainer at Brymbo, said: “We are really grateful for even being here and receiving the money. It’s going to help a lot of children where we will teach them different skills.

“It means a lot to us, we’re only a small community gym, we don’t get much funding and this will bring the kids on more.”

David Lawson, fundraising officer for Proud Mary’s, said: “Thank you so much for helping us reach those of the LBGT+ community. It will allow us to reach out to members, particularly of the lesbian community that are currently isolated and hopefully bring them together through music which will see them find companionship, friendship and activities they enjoy.”

The nominations saw over 4,000 votes come in from members of the community, who voted for their favourite cause to win.

Taking third place in the awards was The Osborne Trust receiving £2,000, which will go towards helping children whose parents have cancer.

Second place went to Blacon High School, receiving £4,000, which is hoping to be the first secondary school with a therapy dog.

Attendees enjoyed a ceremony at the Visitor Centre at Airbus before the winners were announced. by the Leader’s Group Editor.

Susan Perry, Group Editor for Newsquest North Wales added: “I am humbled by the ten finalists represented here today. Their selfless behaviour is an example to us all and the difference they make to so many people is commendable. They are all true winners and their hard work is greatly appreciated.”