In the latest round of Big Society grants, 13 north Norfolk groups were chosen to receive a cash boost.

At £12,500, the largest amount was awarded to Holt Rugby Club, for a new toilet block with nappy-changing facilities.

The club's treasurer, David Hitcham, said a survey of their members highlighted the need for updated facilities.

The money will help the club edge closer to its £85,000 total needed to compete the work.

Mr Hitcham said he hoped work would begin in May and be completed by the end of August ready for the beginning of the next season.

He said: 'With the Rugby World Cup in England next year, it is a good time to get ready for the increased interest in the sport.'

Other groups included Swafield and Suffield village halls who received £3,000 and £2,000 for improvements to the halls and their surroundings.

Swanton Abbott Parish Council was awarded £6,000 and Field Dalling and Saxlingham Parish Councils were awarded £3,880 for improved play equipment.

Waxham and East Ruston Local Community Smallholding received £10,000 for equipment to develop and expand a community smallholding project. The Coastal Rowing Association, based at Blakeney, was awarded £6,637 towards a second St Ayles skiff, trailers and safety equipment.

The Higginbottom Recreational Trust in Briston was granted £3,731 to improve kitchen equipment facilities at Briston Pavilion and £2,000 was granted to Food for Thought to support the organisation in its lunch and activity groups.

The Big Society Fund was set up by North Norfolk District Council to help communities to develop new projects to improve social and economic wellbeing across the area.

Other recipients were Holt Youth Project which was given £10,500 for computers and an interactive white board and projector. Heritage House Caring Group, Wells was given £7,500 towards the cost of a conservatory extension, St Nicholas Parish Church in Wells was given £5,000 and Stalham Firehouse Museum was awarded £1,500.

District council leader, Tom FitzPatrick, said: 'I am really encouraged that so many communities across North Norfolk have come forward with innovative projects.'