STAFF at a Penketh community centre have been celebrating a £5,000 cash boost.

The Oaks Centre on Stocks Lane were awarded the grant from Cheshire Community Foundation for new windows.

It is hoped replacing the eight windows at the former primary school in the next few weeks will help save on heating bills throughout the year.

Tony Mullen, centre manager said: "We really appreciate this generous gesture from Cheshire Community Foundation which means we'll save money on heating costs.

"The Foundation has been very helpful with their support and recognition of the service we provide for the community."

The Oaks Centre has an IT suite offering free courses as part of a wide range of activities since it opened in 2000.

It is the latest organisation to be awarded a grant by Cheshire Community Foundation which has awarded more than £1.3m to more than 400 community projects since it was formed two years ago.

Helen O’Donnell, chief executive, said: “We’re delighted to be able to assist The Oaks Centre.

"The windows have deteriorated over time and the replacements will make the building more attractive and comfortable for users and increase the groups' revenue for room hire."

Grants are awarded quarterly but applications up to £1,000 are assessed monthly.

For more details call Cheshire Community Foundation on 01606 330607 or e-mail grants@cheshirecommunityfoundation.org.uk.

To contact The Oaks Centre, visit the-oaks.org.uk.