SPORTS clubs from across Cowden-Gelly are being given the chance to receive a cash boost thanks to an initiative by supermarket chain Aldi.

The firm have announced the return of its Scottish Sport Fund, which is now open for applications and for any charitable sporting organisation or group to apply for funding for a wide range of purposes, including new strips, training equipment or to subsidise transport costs.

Last year it chose the 46th Fife Scout Group, based in Wemyss Street, Cowdenbeath, to share in £4,500 along with eight other clubs across the Kingdom.

The retailer now hope to support even more clubs in the area and Graham Nicolson, group buying director for Aldi in Scotland, said: "The success of the Scottish Sport Fund has been astounding, from the number of applications we received to the many different ways the funding has helped a diverse range of sports clubs across Fife.

"So it makes perfect sense to open the initiative for a second time and to extend the opportunity to secure valuable funding to even more clubs in this area.

"We're hoping to see more applications this year and there's an even bigger pot of funding just waiting to help out local sports clubs. Our presence in Scotland is growing and we want to make sure we are supporting the local community in as many ways as possible."

Callum Skinner, who won Olympic gold in the team sprint and silver in the individual sprint in Rio last year, helped launch the fund last year and presented the Dunfermline-based Pitreavie RaceRunning Group with their cheque.

He commented: "The work Aldi is doing to provide sports clubs throughout Scotland with funding is hugely important. Every penny will be put to good use by the clubs and will help more people to take part in community-based sport. I started my sporting career at a local racing club in Edinburgh and wouldn’t be where I am today without that experience, so I know first-hand how important it is to support these clubs and charities to help them continue their amazing work."

Online applications are now open and can be made by visiting www.aldi.co.uk/scottishsportfund.

A judging panel from Aldi will review entries and announce successful recipients throughout the year.