RESIDENTS of flats for older people in Bolton are getting a share of a £600,000 in funding to improve their lives.

Runnymede Court, in the Deane area, offers 31 one and two bed flats for elderly people.

The residents are now benefitting from a share of more than £600,000 to enhance their wellbeing.

Anchor Hanover, England’s largest not-for-profit provider of care and housing for elderly people, launched the Greenshoots funding programme in 2006.

The Greenshoots grants have funded a range of activities such as outings, exercise classes and gardening improvements such as raised beds and summer houses.

Nick Sedgewick, Director Of Service Improvement at Anchor Hanover said: "Improving the lives of our residents is at the heart of what we do.

"Over the years Greenshoots has helped residents undertake a great number of activities, improved social wellbeing and added a sense of community.

"It’s hugely exciting to see how the new social enterprise grants are encouraging residents to be become even more involved with what is going on at their estate as well as helping them to reduce loneliness and isolation."

This year, the funding has been extended to help support resident groups to establish social enterprises on their estates, with up to £5,000 made available for their local endeavour. One residents group turned an unused lounge into a card and gift shop. Since opening, their venture has become a place for residents to catch up with family.