TWO Redditch organisations have won substantial grants as part of the Millennium Festival Awards for All.

Youngsters at Busy Bears Pre-school, based in Salop Road Community Centre, should now be able to play outside after the group received £1,659 for a play area.

Busy Bears committee vice-chairman Anne Brindley said: "It's the first time we've received such a grant and hopefully we will now be able to create a small play area for the children if we get permission from Redditch Council."

The pre-school caters for about 22 children up to the age of five.

Mrs Brindley added: "The committee are delighted to receive the money. We weren't sure we would get all that we bid for but they gave us the full amount, which is great."

The Bromsgrove and Redditch Advocacy Group has also been celebrating after receiving a £5,000 grant.

This will pay for a project to enable the advice service to continue its work through recruitment, training and maintenance of its base.

The money will also pay for publicity materials, office equipment and start-up costs for older people advocacy.