Nearly £30,000 has been awarded to 13 projects across Essex and Hertfordshire by the Stansted Airport Community Fund (SACF).

The fund, which aims to improve community life, the environment, and conservation within a 10-mile radius of the airport, offers grants of up to £5,000.

So far this year, the SACF has donated more than £182,000 to charities and community groups in the surrounding area.

Dan Turpin, vice-chair of the SACF, said: "We are thrilled to be able to support these 13 incredible organisations that are doing such important work in our local community.

"It’s great to see the positive impact that the fund is having on the local community."

Among the organisations receiving grants this quarter are St Johns Arts and Recreation Association, Harlow, which received £2,500 towards a new boiler, and Debden Parish Council, which received £400 to restore signage.

One of the organisations receiving a grant is 309 (Sawbridgeworth) Squadron Air Cadets, which provides activities for young people to develop important life skills.

Flight Lieutenant Jaden Barber from 309 (Sawbridgeworth) RAFAC, said: "We are incredibly grateful to Stansted Airport’s Community Fund for this generous grant.

"Their support enables us to deliver high-quality training to our cadets."