Village cafe hands out grants to mark anniversary

The cafe and bar said it has had lots of local support and wants to give back

A Somerset cafe and music venue is celebrating its second anniversary by giving away grants to local good causes.

Bluebird Café and Bar in Wedmore, Somerset, first opened at the end of May 2023, and hosts live music events, comedy nights and quizzes.

It is also a hub for local groups like the WI and Men's Shed to meet.

One of the cafe owners, Ian Scott, said: "The local community has continued to support us this year and we are delighted to again be able to give money back to support local worthwhile causes."

The venue said its aim is to support its community and emerging local musicians by offering grants to sports teams, schools, youth organisations and health groups.

Last year, on its first anniversary, café owners Andy Daintree and Ian Scott donated grants worth £10,000.

This year, they plan to distribute funding to the successful applicants during a presentation evening at the Bluebird on Thursday 22 May.

Mr Daintree said: "The concept of the Bluebird is 'community at our heart'.

"Our principle is to support the local community wherever we can, by being a place local groups can meet or individuals, groups and families can come and enjoy the friendly welcoming atmosphere."

The business has become a place for groups to meet

Last year, one of the Bluebird grants went to the Friends of Wedmore Hospicecare, which is to be spent on new equipment.

Wedmore in Bloom, the local scout and guide groups, the junior cricket club, a women's cycle group, Wedmore by Lamplight and a village dance group also received money.