ONE of the first things Ian White had to do as the new manager of the Co-op store in Wiveliscombe was give away more than £4,000.

The cash built up through a one per cent donation from members' purchases was distributed to three causes in the town as part of the grocer's Co-op Local Community Fund scheme.

Mr White, who took up his post earlier this month, presented cheques for £1,374 to Wiveliscombe Community Swimming Pool, £1,374 to the recreation ground and £1,439 to Wiveliscombe Area Partnership.

He said: "All the causes involved were very happy with the totals they received, and the monies raised will go a long way to support each of their needs."

The town's rugby club, the primary school PTFA and the town hall trust will be the beneficiaries of the next round of grants.