A Llantrisant-based housebuilder has given away more than £10,000 to regional charities in the last six months and is now urging other charities to apply as there are still thousands of pounds waiting to be handed out.

Community groups, charities and good causes across Llantrisant, Cardiff and Abergavenny have benefited thanks to the donations from Persimmon Homes East Wales.

The builder launched its Community Champions fund last year to support grassroots activities that improve the quality of life for local people. The scheme invites local groups and charities to bid for cash from a national fund, with two donations of up to £1,000 being made locally every month.

The scheme proved so successful that the builder decided to continue it for another year. Charities and groups benefiting in the region this year included Abergavenny Cricket Club, Monmouth Rotary Club and Hay2Timbuktu.

Victoria Williams, sales director at Persimmon Homes East Wales, said: “There has been a tremendous response to our Community Champions scheme but we are keen to remind charities and organisations that they can still apply.

“We’ve made it really simple to enter by visiting www.persimmonhomes.com/charity and completing an online application form.

“We want to hear from everyone as we’re determined to invest our money where it will help the most. All we ask is that the group or charity has already worked hard to raise money themselves, and we will then match this effort with funding of up to £1,000.”