COMMUNITY groups have praised the North Ayrshire Council Labour group after they donated £6,000 to local organisations who are supporting residents throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Among the groups to receive the funding were North Ayrshire Foodbank, who received £2,000 with Fullarton Community Association and Vineburgh Community Association receiving £1,000 each.

A spokesperson for the Foodbank said: “A huge thanks to the North Ayrshire Labour Group of councillors. Their £2,000 donation is timely as we are about to start our summer programme of supporting those homes affected by food scarcity during the holiday period.

Donna Fitzpatrick, of the Fullarton Community Association, said: “We would like to thank the Labour Party for the very generous donation of £1000 to our COVID Community Fund. This will go a long way in providing support with food to our communities. On behalf of our community, we thank each and every one of you.”

Labour councillors decided to donate money to community groups who have been on the frontline during the pandemic as a way of thanking them for all their efforts in challenging times.

Labour group chair, and deputy leader of the council, John Bell said: “On behalf of the North Ayrshire Labour group, I want to thank all the community groups who have supported our constituents through this crisis.

“We are indebted to these groups, and the individual volunteers involved, for their hard work and dedication and we wanted to show our appreciation by making a financial donation to support their efforts.

Labour group secretary, Councillor Donald Reid, added: “We hope that the money makes a difference to these groups who we know will continue to support residents in the weeks and months to come.”