Thousands of pounds given out to help youngsters in the Finedon area

Finedon Educational Charity was set up in 1980 to promote the education and development of young people living in the Finedon area.

A piece of land was left to the charity but it is only now, more than 30 years on, that the charity has been able to sell and reap the benefits.

Money from the sale can be invested and then any income from this becomes a pot of cash to help out individuals, groups or schools in and around Finedon for educational purposes.

The Revd Richard Coles, who is a trustee of the charity, presented a cheque for £8,280 to staff and pupils at Huxlow Science College yesterday (Thursday) after they applied for money to buy some laptops.

Brian Foster from the charity said: “This money is going to buy 24 laptops for students to use in the design and technology department.”

Katie Campbell, assistant learning leader for design and technology at the school, said: “This equipment will make a difference to every student that does design and technology through Key Stage 3, 4 and 5.”

Students will be able to use the laptops for various activities, including laser cutting, 3D printing and their coursework.

This latest round of grants has also seen £7,600 given to Finedon Mulso School for 35 laptops so every child in the year group has one to use with the interactive white board.

Money has also been given to scouts and guides groups in the area this week.

Mr Foster added: “We have given away £43,863 during the year.

“We have given away 24 grants in the year, of which 10 are individuals, six to groups and eight to schools.”

He added: “It’s a legacy that was left to us which we are now passing on to whoever comes to us.

“That money we have invested will always be there.

“It will be there for ever and a day because it is ring-fenced.”

For more information or to download an application form for the next set of grants, go to www.finedoneducationalcharity.org and apply before June 16.