A ‘record-breaking’ £60,000 is up for grabs for local charities and groups across Dorset.

Independent family-owned brewer, Hall and Woodhouse (H&W) has launched its 2024 Community Chest Awards.

Applications are now open for charitable organisations across Dorset to seek support from the fund.

This is the largest amount the business has pledged since the initiative began 22 years ago.

Mark Woodhouse, Family Director of Hall & Woodhouse, said: “Our Community Chest was created to give back directly to the areas in which we operate across the south.

“Every year we are hugely impressed by the incredible work of local people who go above and beyond to help others. We celebrate these people through the Chest and seek to promote, encourage, and support our local communities.

“We’re looking forward to learning all about the amazing initiatives that work tirelessly to make a difference in our local communities.”

The Community Chest is accessible to a wide range of community initiatives and small volunteer-led charities with a total income of less than £200,000.

Entrants have until Sunday, July 14, to submit their grant applications for £300 - £3,000.

Applications can be for a variety of things, including help with operational costs, purchasing essential equipment, and providing required training.

Since the Community Chest was established in 2002, the brewer has donated more than £800,000 to some amazing causes.

Successful applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application in November 2024, with an awards ceremony held in January 2025.

The application form can be downloaded here: www.hall-woodhouse.co.uk/community-chest and then emailed to: communitychest@hall-woodhouse.co.uk for consideration.