THREE Colchester charities are thousands of pounds better off, thanks to the Gazette.

Beacon House, Colchester YMCA and the Phoenix Swimming Club were each awarded cash by the Gazette’s parent company, Gannett, as part of its annual foundation grants scheme.

The Gazette received an overwhelming number of applications from worthwhile groups and charities, bidding to receive funding for equipment, schemes or to stage events.

Beacon House, in East Hill, which offers healthcare services to homeless people, has been awarded £4,996 to renovate the showers at its shelter.

Centre manager Alan Turner said: “Our showers have been well-used for the past 13 years and need replacing, so this is truly fantastic news for us.”

The Colchester YMCA received a grant for £2,114 to fit out its training kitchen with enough equipment to teach its young residents how to cook and eat healthily.

Andrew Wallis, from the group, said: “This is magic news. Thank you so much, and thank you on behalf of everyone at the club who will benefit from this funding. It is great news.”

Phoenix Swimming Club, for people with disabilities, based at Leisure World, in Cowdray Avenue, received £1,552 to replace its 15-year-old landing mattresses, which are used to help members get in and out of the pool.

The club, which offers everything from basic lessons to preparation for competitive events, will buy pace clocks for members with Down’s Syndrome and the visually impaired, and a locked trolley cage to securely store equipment.

Maggie Hargraves, from the club, said: “I’m absolutely delighted and honoured, not just for me, but for everyone who works at and uses the club. It is absolutely brilliant.”

Gazette editor Martin McNeill said: “Every year, the Gannett Foundation gives tens of thousands of pounds to worthwhile causes. I am delighted that, this year, three Colchester charities, nominated by the Gazette, were picked to receive funding, which will make a big difference.”