A LOCAL charity which benefits community groups and organisations in a significant part of Torridge has issued a reminder that the deadline for applications is approaching.

The Balsdon Trust, which benefits groups within a 10 mile radius of the church spires in three towns, says that applications for the next tranche of funding must be submitted by near the end of April.

The Balsdon Trust was set up in 2006 after the death of a local farmer called Billy Balsdon. Mr Balsdon had no immediate family so he decided, with advice from his solicitor, the late James Rowland, that upon his death his money would be left in trust to be given out to any organisation who are fundraising for a specific project within 10 miles as the crow flies from the church spires of Holsworthy, Halwill and Langtree - three places that were significant to him during his lifetime.

A spokesperson for the Balsdon Trust said: “Over the years we have given away tens of thousands of pounds. Our website is www.thebalsdontrust.co.uk and our next meeting is May 7, 2025 and applications must be in two weeks before that date.”