Grant for Nepalese community

The Nepalese community in Andover is benefitting from a £2,000 funding boost after councillors awarded a Multi-Ward Grant.

The Andover Nepalese Community is a group that exists to maintain strong relationships among each other, and provides both welfare and social support to the members of the community who need it. It also preserves and promotes Nepalese culture through organising social and charity activities.

Through Andover Vision, a strong relationship has been built with Test Valley Borough Council and the Nepalese community across the town and borough.

Chairman Major Roj Gurung, of Andover Nepalese Community said: “These activities are important for community cohesiveness, recreational purposes, educational awareness and to maintain our culture and tradition.

“These activities have also helped introduce our community to the wider community, and raise our profile. They help us to not only bond with each other, but also provide the opportunity for other people in the wider community to learn more about our traditions. We are very grateful to Test Valley Borough Council for this significant donation.”

Councillor Phil North, Leader of Test Valley Borough Council presented the cheque to Chairman Major Roj Gurung, and other members of the community group.

Councillor North said: “The Nepalese community in Andover have been strongly involved in the development of the Andover Vision, and have had a float in the Andover carnival for the past two years.

“They are keen to be more involved in the community, and I know all Andover councillors were delighted to be able to help them do this through a £2,000 Councillor Community Grant.”

The funds have helped the community group to purchase new banners, traditional drums and to help with their presence online through their website.

The Test Valley Borough Council Multi-Ward Grant is awarded when a community group benefits a large number of residents, or more than one area.