Councillor grant helps acorns grow

Two groups from South Wymondham have benefitted from funding from their local Councillor. Acorn and Conkers and The Lizard Charity have both received a Ward Grant from South Norfolk Councillor Carmina McConnell.

Children at Acorn and Conkers pre-school in Spooner Row have spent their £400 grant on a whole host of new outdoor play equipment.

Cllr McConnell, member for South Wymondham, said: “Acorn and Conkers provide a vital service for local families; it’s essential that children in Spooner Row and beyond are provided with safe and enriching experiences. I am delighted to be able to support them.”

The pre-school caters for children aged 2-4 and runs a breakfast and after school club as well as a popular holiday club for youngsters aged 2-11.

Manager Sue Knivett said: “The new equipment is a great addition and will encourage the children to play out on the field and be more active.”

The equipment includes footballs, a dance set with ribbons and bells, an outdoor speaker, hula hoops, bats and balls, velcro target games and much more.

Cllr McConnell also supported the Lizard Charity, a group of volunteers who take care of 45 acres of land in Wymondham. The Lizard is a Conservation Area and a County Wildlife Site and is a popular recreational area for local people.

Cllr McConnell said: “I have been coming to this beautiful part of Wymondham for many years and have some very happy memories of time spent here with my children. Thanks to the hard work of the volunteers, this is such a special place for both wildlife to thrive and for people to enjoy.”

The Lizard Charity used the £600 grant to pay for a new battery-operated heavy-duty brush cutter. 

Trustee and volunteer Jeanie Harris said: “The new equipment is so much lighter than the old petrol version and will help to make the work much easier, it’s also more environmentally friendly.”

Currently the group has around 12 volunteers but are always keen for more help. 

Trustee Annette James said: “During the spring and summer months there are always paths and areas to be mowed, strimmed and raked; trees and hedges to be cared for; and even litter-picking. We have a lovely group of volunteers who help, but it would be fantastic to have more.” 

Residents can join the Lizard Volunteers Facebook group to find out about volunteering opportunities. 

For more information about South Norfolk Ward Grants visit www.southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk/communities/members-ward-funding or speak to your local councillor.