SIX Bolton community groups are to benefit from a £25,000 share of Lottery funding.

Bolton Independent Living Federation, Harmony Youth Project, St Mary's RC Primary School, St Ethelbert's RC Primary School, The Haulgh Community Partnership and Withins School will each receive between £2,850 and £5,000.

The money has been made available through the Awards for All grant scheme, which aims to make a difference to local groups and improve the quality of life across the North West.

The programme involves all Lottery money distributors -- Sport England, Heritage Lottery Fund, Community Fund, New Opportunities Fund and Arts Council for England.

Almost £800,000 is to be shared between 207 North West community groups, voluntary groups, schools, sports clubs and Village Halls.

The Haulgh Partnership, which formed nine months ago with the aim to work on a number of issues affecting the local community, is to receive £4,678.

Chairman of the organisation, Janet Strong is delighted with the grant, she said: "We hope to produce three newsletters and make a one-off leaflet about the local history of the community. The money will help towards our strategic plan for the regeneration of the Haulgh. Our organisation is a good example of a community taking responsibility for itself and its future."

St Mary's RC Primary School in Horwich plan to use their £4,864 to buy new PE equipment for the school gym.

Head teacher Claire Massingham said: "It was a nice surprise for the school. We plan to improve gymnastics facilities, which will be a huge benefit to the pupils." St Ethelbert's RC Primary School are set to receive £2,850 which they plan to use to set up a satellite gymnastics club -- so called because it will be open to members of the local community as well as pupils.

Head teacher Terry Parkinson said: "We are delighted to receive the grant, it will offer a wonderful opportunity for pupils, teachers, parents and members of the local community. We hope as many children as possible will benefit from the activities we intend to provide."

Six other local groups will also receive Awards for All grants -- Bury Cricket Development Group, Bury Sports Club, Ramsbottom Cricket Club, Hindley Green Primary School, Leigh Rugby Union Football Club Mini and Junior Section and Lowton High School.

The grant cheques will be presented to the various organisations next week.