VOLUNTARY organisations across the county have been awarded almost £144,000 by Herefordshire Council.

The council's voluntary sector grants panel is inundated with requests from worthy organisations and this year 28 from the arts to sport were successful.

Councillor Roy Stockton, cabinet member for community and social development, said: "As I'm sure people are well aware, the council's budget is extremely tight and we can't help every cause.

"However, I'm delighted we have been able to support such a diverse group that will contribute to the county's active and vibrant voluntary sector."

A grant of £15,000 was "music to the ears" of Dennis Schiavon, administrator of the Music Pool - Herefordshire's community music charity.

Dennis said: " We were delighted with the grant; this represents a long and fruitful relationship we have had with Hereford-shire Council.

"It means we can carry on with our core activities such as maintaining our information and advice music directory and personal service.

"And we can now continue our workshops, events and activities, as well."

Music Pool's directory is available via the internet and provides a range of information such as details for music teachers, music shops, venues and bands.

This year's grant winners:

Landscape Recording Association £1,500; Leominster Festival £5,000; New Theatre Works £2,250; Nightjar Music £1,500; Presteigne Festival of Music and Arts £1,500; The Music Pool £15,000; Age Concern Hereford and Worcester £29,000;

Community Voluntary Action - Ledbury £3,481; ECHO £2,000; Full House Furniture & Recycling £7,500; Herefordshire Association for the Blind £6,600; Herefordshire Heartstart £1,000;

Herefordshire Peoples Advocacy Network £6,000; Home Start Herefordshire £4,000; Jumpstart £4,000; Ledbury Day Centre £2,000;

Leominster Money Box £7,500; Leominster Shop Mobility £4,500; Marches Family Network £8,000; Victim Support - Herefordshire £2,000;

Kington Museum £2,000; Leominster Folk Museum £2,000; Riding for the Disabled Association £500; HCVYS £8,000;

Kidz First £5,640; Ledbury Youth First offer of 'in-kind' support; Teme Valley youth Project £8,000; Xtreme Youth Projects £3.500.