Awards for All Scotland provide grants of between £500 and £10,000 for people, projects and groups that promote education, the environment and health in the local community, as well as those actively involved in art, sport, heritage and community activities.

SportScotland granted Cumbernauld Netball Club £9,749 and Palacerigg Junior Coaching Club £5000, money that both groups will use to train volunteers and buy vital equipment. Additionally, the Big Lottery Fund awarded both Chapelgreen Primary School in Queenzieburn and Cornerstone House in Cumbernauld grants of £10,000. Chapelgreen will purchase portable stage equipment and outdoor play equipment, and Cornerstone House will invest in seating for the community centre, currently being renovated in Cumbernauld.

Cathie said:

"I am delighted that the Cumbernauld Netball Club, Chapelgreen Primary, Palacerigg Junior Coaching Club and Cornerstone House have received grants from both SportScotland and the Big Lottery Fund.

"All were worthy of the funding granted to them and they put together excellent bids.

"They promote sport, community cohesion, education, health and general activity. This money will go a long way to helping them keep up the good work, and expand across our area, with improved equipment, better training for volunteers and increased activity for many in Cumbernauld and Kilsyth, whether young or old.

"I thank SportScotland and the Big Lottery fund for their generous investment in our area, and wish all involved every success for the future."