Charities and community organisations in the South East have the chance to receive a big helping hand as the B&Q ‘You Can Do It’ Awards 2004 are launched on Tuesday 27 January 2004.

The awards aim to regenerate local areas, giving new life to buildings and landscapes used by local community organisations. Over the past eight years, the UK’s leading DIY retailer has already donated over £1/2 million to community projects in these national awards and this year will award a further £100,000 worth of products between 20 projects across the country.

The twenty grants of £5,000 worth of B&Q products are to be given away to enable community groups to improve their facilities.

B&Q’s chief executive, Bill Whiting, says: “The B&Q ‘You Can Do It’ Awards form just one element of the company’s commitment to putting something back into the communities that we serve. This year, we hope to again give local organisations the chance to embark on DIY projects which can make a real difference to their local area.”

Do you know a group who would benefit from a colourful revamp over the summer? If you do, contact them now, as they have until Friday 19 March 2004 to send in their application forms.

Any community-based organisations in the South East, such as local charities, disability, environmental and youth groups are eligible. The planned renovation work must be completed by Sunday 19 September 2004. Anyone interested should contact the B&Q hotline number on 0845 300 1001. Alternatively, visit the B&Q ‘You Can Do It’ Awards page on the B&Q website at www.diy.com/awards

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Notes to Editors:

B&Q 'You Can Do It' 2003 Winner from the South East

Project: Spa Valley Railway
Town: Tunbridge Wells
Region: South East

The Railway is run by volunteers and is visited by many community groups, such as local schools. Children and adult visitors gain knowledge of the history of the railway and other aspects of the past.

The award was used to primarily improve lighting around the railway, making it more safe for visitors and enabling winter opening hours to be extended. The ticket office and gift shop were also redecorated internally, making them more appealing for potential visitors.

For further information please contact:
Nicole Norman at Hill and Knowlton on 0207 413 3166