GYMNASTS, rugby players, boxers and footballers were among the recipients of grants to help their clubs to develop.

Runcorn Sports Trust recently celebrated its 30th anniversary.

The charitable trust was set up to support small sports and recreational groups in Runcorn, particularly youth and disadvantaged groups.

Setting up the trust was discussed during 1987 and founded on 3rd February 3, 1988 with £25,000 capital from the residue of defunct Runcorn Development Corporation.

Two of the original trustees treasurer Sid Broxton and chairman Ciaran Shanahan presented cheques to Beechwood Netball Club, Halton & District Junior Football League, Brookvale United FC, Runcorn Amateur Rugby League Club, Runcorn Boxing Club and Finesse Gymnastic Club.

Mr Shanahan said: "It was with deep sadness that two of our original trustees, having passed away recently, Peter Lyon and John Toft, could not be there to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the trust.

The Trust invites annual applications from Runcorn based small sports and recreational organisations for small grants, usually around April and successful applications are presented with cheques in June each year.

The deadline for applications for next year will be the end of April 2019.