​Community projects benefit from latest round of funding

Edinburgh Airport has awarded a range of organisations across Lothians and Fife cash amounting to £40,000.

The money is being shared with the groups through the airport’s Community Board, which awards grants to non-profits, charities and community projects.

Around £640,000 has been given to projects which support health and well-being, the environment and education since the fund launched in 2012.

Chief executive of Edinburgh Airport Gordon Dewar said: “We know the important role that these projects and many others have within their local communities and it is only right that we recognise that work. We are delighted to be able to help by awarding these funds and give something back to our neighbouring areas.”

One of the projects to receive funding in the latest round is Boroughmuir Thistle FC. It will use the cash to provide new equipment for its players.

Chairman Gavin Michie said: "As the only Scottish FA Community Quality Mark club for girls and women in the South East of Scotland, this award will allow us to further develop opportunities for girls and women in our community of all abilities and aspirations to become regularly active in football.”

Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP, the chair of the Community Board, added: “It's a real privilege for me to chair the community board.

So many charities and groups have had an unexpected lift from the generosity of the airport and it's such a thrill to help direct the funding to so many good causes and projects.

“It's a model of community engagement I'd encourage others to follow."