A SPORTS centre in the Chalke Valley has received a grant to help during the coronavirus pandemic.

Persimmon Homes South Coast is currently focussing on giving up to £1,000 to two groups that benefit people aged 70 and over every month through its Community Champions scheme.

The latest groups to receive money are Chalke Valley Sports Centre and Allendale Cafe Community Food Supply in Wimborne.

Chalke Valley Sports Centre will put its £700 towards a new cricket wicket, while Allendale Cafe Community Food Supply has received £800 to help cook and deliver more than 500 meals a week.

Michaela Johns, of Chalke Valley Sports Centre, said: “Our members are mostly retired people aiming to keep fit through a range of sports, including short mat bowls, tennis, table tennis, cricket and football. The centre is a focal point for the community and helps greatly with social isolation. We are in need of a replacement cricket wicket and we’re extremely grateful to Persimmon for this assistance.”

Persimmon Homes gives away up to £744,000 a year through Community Champions.

Graeme Cole, sales director at Persimmon Homes South Coast, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to support these two groups through Community Champions.

“These are two great causes who do wonderful work with the over-70s in their areas.”