COMMUNITY groups in Clackmannanshire could be set to benefit from an innovative new scheme from Asda.

The retailer is using net proceeds from the single-use carrier bag charge to support projects – with the emphasis on ensuring these are distributed locally.

Under the Asda Carrier Bag Community Grants Scheme, grants of up to £2000 are up for grabs for good causes that matter most to their customers.

Local supermarket, Asda Alloa, is urging Wee County groups to apply now to find out how they could benefit.

Community life champion at the Whins Road store, Joanna Scobie, is on hand to help with applications. She said: “At Asda, we hope the carrier bag charge will have long-term social, as well as environmental, benefits and we want to involve the local community in deciding where the money should be spent.

“That’s why we have created the Asda Carrier Bag Community Grant scheme, which will give local groups the chance to benefit from grants of up to £2000.

“We want to encourage lots of applications from community groups: it’s quick and easy to apply and you don’t have to be a registered charity. Come and speak to me in store for more information, or visit the website at www.foundationscotland.org.uk/asda.” The grants can help meet a wide range of costs for community groups, including general running costs, training, equipment and materials, and even community activities and events.

They are administered by registered charity Foundation Scotland and regional panels of Asda colleagues will select the successful projects with most relevance to their community.