THREE good causes in Aveley have received their payouts after being nominated for the Co-op's Local Community Fund support for the past 12 months.

The store's Co-op Member Pioneer Claire Mason spoke about the Local Community Fund scheme and about the new local causes that will benefit in the year to come at a presentation ceremony at the store.

Representatives of Aveley Village Community Foundation were on hand to receive £1,466.64 while Belhus Park Scout Group got £1,313.71 and the Friends of Essex and London Homeless £1,544.21.

Joanne from the Community Foundation said: "The money will be put towards the cost of old age pensioner's meals, our coming Christmas market and generally across the needs of the local community."

Steve Stuart from the Friends of Essex and London Homeless said: "This money is gratefully received, many thanks to the Co-op and the people of Avelely. As we go into the winter months they can rest assured it will be put to very good use helping those in need."

Mick Watts, group leader of Belhus Scouts - which is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year - also expressed thanks to the Avelely community.