Last week saw 4,500 local causes receive a payout from the Local Community Fund thanks to Co-op Members.

Payout day was celebrated across the nation and, while previous years have had celebrations hosted in stores and cause centres, this year's celebrations were enjoyed remotely.

Members in the Ashby and Moira area contributed to great local causes such as Moira Replan.

Moira Replan was originally set up to re-train people who found themselves unemployed when the area's coal mining industry fell into decline in the 80s.

Since then, they've not only continued providing this service but have moved with the times and now have a repair shop where they run an active recycling programme, specialising in recycling items that might otherwise end up in landfill. Last week we had a chance to catch up and congratulate them.

Moira Replan founder Graham Knight says the money they have received from the Co-op has been invaluable, and will help towards improving the infrastructure at their Ashby Road base.

"We try to do something a little bit different that we could never have done without Co-op Members' support. We brought a building back to use that would've gone derelict," he explained.

How does Payout work?

When Co-op Members buy selected Co-op branded products and services,2p for every pound spent is split between community organisations and local causes.

And it soon adds up. These members have helped raise £15 million for 4,500 causes this year.

From supporting projects that improve access to food and mental wellbeing, to education and employment opportunities for young people, the Local Community Fund has never been so vital.

Since 2016, 21,000 community groups have shared over £70m through Co-op's Membership programme.

More information about the benefits of Co-op Membership is available by visiting the Co-op website.