DESERVING organisations in Malvern received a Christmas present in the form of grants from Mal-vern Hills Lions Club.

Four groups have been given money to support their work - 1st Leigh Guides, Leapfrogs pre-school, Malvern Special Needs Swimming Club and Plumtree Women's Project.

The Lions raise money by holding events throughout the year and give the cash to worthy local causes.

Community services committee chairman Brian Larner said the group looked at a number of factors in deciding how to allocate the money.

"We try to prioritise how many people will benefit, what the need is and what the value to the community is," he said.

1st Leigh Guides received £210 to buy special T-shirts.

Leader Ann Somers said: "It's absolutely fantastic. When I told the other leaders that we had got the grant we were jumping up and down."

The Guides, who often go to non-uniform events, will now have matching casual tops, making it easier for their leaders to distinguish them.

Leapfrogs pre-school, in West Malvern, has been awarded £150 for a new cooker. Leader Jane Godfrey said it would be used for fun cookery and healthy eating sessions.

Malvern Special Needs Swimming Club received £180 to join the National Association of Swimming Clubs. As it does not charge members the full price for swim sessions, it is often short of cash.

Group leader Evelyn Cunningham said: "It really takes the pressure off the club. We're delighted to have the support of the local community."

The Plumtree Women's Project received £500 for a computer.

Organisations unsuccessful in this round of grants will be reconsidered in the next round early next year.