The Plumstead Make Merry has won funding as part of Skipton Building Society’s Grassroot initiative.

304 community groups, clubs and organisations from across the UK were shortlisted based on the positive impact they make in the local community. 161 final winners were then chosen by a public vote.

Sarah Harper, Chair of the Plumstead Make Merry Committee, said: “This is fantastic news and we’re absolutely delighted to have won funding from the Skipton Building Society’s Grassroot initiative.

The Plumstead Make Merry is run entirely by volunteers who are incredibly passionate about the local community and since losing our council funding, it has become increasingly difficult to raise enough funds to continue running the festival.

I would like to say a big thank you to all our supporters and everybody who voted for us. We’re determined that next year’s festival will be the best one yet, especially as it marks our 40th anniversary”.

The Plumstead Make Merry is one 161 winners who will each receive £500.