Alfreton gets lit up for Christmas!
The Town of Alfreton burst into light at 5pm last Saturday when the Town Mayor, Councillor Mary Kerry, assisted by local children, turned on the Town’s Christmas lights.
The event was well attended by a large number of adults and children who packed the area around Alfreton House. They had been entertained throughout the day by a range of musicians, street entertainers, fair ground rides and of course dear old Santa.
The event also gave the opportunity for local charities to raise around £2,000 for good causes. Local producers and businesses also had the opportunity to showcase their wares.
Councillor Gail Dolman, the event organiser said “Of course an event like this cannot go ahead without the support of local businesses and shops. I would like to thank them all for their generosity particularly our support from Brandon Tool Hire, Keycraft, Alfreton Rotary Club and the many shops and businesses who generously provided raffle prizes”.
Councillor Mary Kerry, the Town Mayor said “I was thrilled to perform the switch on and pleased to see the excitement for Christmas from the many children and also the adults who helped with the Christmas countdown. I know that Christmas is a time for giving but once again Alfreton people displayed their warmth and generosity with spontaneous gifts and food parcels as well as cash for my chosen charity for this year, Alfreton Foodbank”
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If you’re a budding artist or love creative activities, head down to Firs House, Alfreton between 4-6pm! They’ll be lots going on and it’s a great chance to meet new friends and learn new skills.
Amber Valley Borough Council is set to launch a new Members’ Community Grants Scheme, designed to provide a funding boost to the people and groups making a difference in their neighbourhoods.
Starting next month, each borough councillor will be able to award up to £500 per year in small grants, helping to fund one-off purchases, events or activities that benefit local residents.
Individual grants of up to £100 will be available, giving councillors the opportunity to directly support worthwhile initiatives in their wards.
The scheme is all about offering quick, targeted support where it’s needed most.
Whether it’s helping a volunteer group buy equipment, funding a small community event, or supporting a project that brings people together, these grants aim to create a positive local impact without the need for large-scale funding applications.
The Members’ Community Grants Scheme will run from April 2025 until March 2027, covering the next two financial years.
Councillor Chris Emmas-Williams, Leader of Amber Valley Borough Council, said: “This scheme is a fantastic way for our councillors to connect with their communities and help get small but meaningful projects off the ground. Often, it’s these modest amounts of funding that can make the biggest difference. I’m really looking forward to seeing the ideas that come forward and working with our members to support them.”
To be eligible, grants must support a project or activity that benefits the local community and takes place within Amber Valley.
Funding should be spent within three months of being received, unless agreed otherwise, and applicants are encouraged to use local suppliers wherever possible.
Full details about the scheme are due to be finalised at the next cabinet meeting on 2 April 2025, after which community groups or individuals with a great idea or specific need will be encouraged to contact their local borough councillor for information on how to make an application.
Residents can find their local borough councillor on the council’s website at https://www.ambervalley.gov.uk/councillors