GRATEFUL volunteers say their free advice service has been saved from closure after it was handed vital funding by their council.

Rochford and Rayleigh Citizens Advice Bureau was given £67,000 by Rochford District Council.

The council is giving more than £100,000 to voluntary groups across south Essex.

The CAB helps more than 3,000 people a year.

Sue Murray, chief executive of Rochford and Rayleigh CAB, said: “This money will enable us to provide a service. Without that funding and the support of the council, and they really do support us, we wouldn’t be able to provide any advice.”

Rayleigh, Rochford and District Association for Voluntary Service has been awarded £15,000.

June Lumley, its chairman, said: “This grant will allow us to continue to support the hundreds of local volunteers and organisations which make such a difference on a daily basis.”

The council has handed out hundreds of thousands of pounds since 2012.

The funding will help support nine projects in the Rochford district, including buying equipment for disability sports sessions run from Stambridge Memorial Hall.

Rayleigh Age Concern will get some help towards buying a new boiler, while Fairview pre-school, in Rayleigh, will be given cash for a storage shed.

Local Scout and Cub groups will be able to improve their Scout Huts, refurbish toilets, buy a new trailer and waterproof their tents, and Rankins Cricket Club will be buying a new sightscreen.

More than £7,000 was left unallocated and the council is inviting applications for the remaining funding.

Jo McPherson, Rochford District Council’s councillor responsible for the community, said: “These organisations truly make a difference to the lives of residents.”

If you are a voluntary organisation and would like to apply for funding, contact Andrew Lowing, on 01702 318061 or email andrew.

lowing@rochford.gov.uk.