THE CHANCE for charities to win much needed funding for the vital work they do in the borough is here again - and they need readers' help.

The Ealing Gazette and Barclays are launching the Let's Do It Awards this week, and are inviting you to nominate the organisations making a difference.

Last year the £1,000 top prize went to Ealing Stroke Club, which provides a friendship group and support for those suffering from the debilitating condition.

Speaking at the awards ceremony in the mayor's parlour last year, chairman John Hillman, said: "We hold weekly meetings in St John's Church in Mattock Lane, Ealing, providing a social opportunity for those who have suffered strokes.

"We're very happy to have received this award. It will give us an opportunity to hold an outing for our members, something we struggle to do as a small club due to the cost of transport."

PESTS (Parents of Ealing Self-Help Training Scheme), which helps those looking after children with special needs, won the second prize of £500. Maureen Browne, outreach worker at the charity based in Norwood Road, Southall, described the prize as a ‘real honour’.

The Sybil Elgar School, for children with autism, based in Southall, and West London YMCA received £750 each.

And the EASE older people's project, in Copley Close, Hanwell, won a visit by a Barclays team to help them manage their money and provide financial advice to the community.