A VILLAGE community centre has been chosen to benefit from a food retail giant’s hugely successful charity giving scheme.

And the public is being urged to get behind the initiative.

DMI Community Centre, in the Denholme Mechanics’ Institute building, is among causes selected to receive support through the Co-op Local Community Fund.

As part of the scheme, one per cent of what Co-op members spend on selected own-brand products and services goes to community projects. And members can choose which to donate to.

Sandra Kelly, community co-ordinator at the DMI centre, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen to benefit from the fund.

“At a time when funds for community groups and charitable organisations are becoming more difficult to access, we’re incredibly grateful for this opportunity.

“We’re raising funds to provide meaningful and stimulating activity for older and isolated individuals in the community.

“We want to arrange a variety of events over a 12-month period enabling as many people as possible to participate.

“Our hope is to improve community cohesion and benefit those in particular who may feel lonely.

“There will be regular events to attend, giving time for new friendships to flourish and be sustained.”

She said the well-used Main Road centre, whose running was taken over by the community last year after Bradford Council relinquished a number of its buildings to save cash, is relying on Co-op members to help it raise the “vital” extra funding.

“When members buy selected products or services from the Co-op they earn a five per cent reward for themselves and a further one per cent for local causes like ours,” Sandra added.

“Members can choose a cause by going online at coop.co.uk/membership. We really hope that people will opt to support us. If you’re not a member and would like to give support, you can join at your local store or online.

“The Co-op is looking to help organisations that make a difference in their communities by improving community spaces, supporting people to reach their full potential, or promoting health and wellbeing.”

Further information about DMI Community Centre can be obtained from Sandra on 07366 493449.