Two Children's groups in Pontypool are to benefit from a £700 donation from the Co-op.

As part of the company's Community Dividend fund, Kemys Kawr Kids Club will receive £200 and Team Kid will receive £500.

Kemys Kawr Kids Club will use the money to promote a healthy eating and exercise project for the 130 children who attend the childcare group. The money will buy skipping ropes, footballs and tennis equipment. "It's very important to encourage children to exercise from an early age as well as to eat the right foods.

"Thanks to this kind of donation from the Co-op we can buy small pieces of outdoor equipment which helps to keep the children fit as well as providing fun activities," said Treasurer Gail Saunders.

Team Kid intends to buy a projector which will be used to show DVDs and presentations at a local church where they meet.

The equipment will be shared with other community groups that use the church facilities, including a family and history group and a residents association.

The community Dividend fund is part of the Co-operative Group's Dividend customer loyalty card scheme which allows shoppers to donate the extra pence in their twice-yearly Dividend payouts to worthy causes.

Around £100,000 is available annually to support charities and community groups in the region with local Co-op members' committees allocating the awards throughout the year, based on values such as social responsibility and caring for others.