One of the groups, Friends of Duchess Woods, have used their grant to plant 40 native fruiting trees (wild cherry/pear and apple) in woodland areas which will improve biodiversity by attracting more insects and birds.

A volunteer from the group said ‘These trees will in future years encourage more birds and insects into the Wood, improving biodiversity and the amenity value of the Wood for the Community and visitors’

The other two groups from the area were; Friends of Hermitage Park who plan to spend their grant on an entrance noticeboard for the park; and Rhu and Shandon Community Council who plan to –replace and upgrade a seat on the end of Rhu spit.