Participatory budgeting (PB) is a way for local communities to become involved in deciding how to spend public money.

And Fernhill Communities Together will receive £4,200 from PB money to bring the popular Fernhill Gala Day back for the community to enjoy.

The event has been unable to happen in recent years due to Covid and the community centre being used as a vaccine site. It is hoped that it will return to becoming an annual event.

Community Volunteer Lynsey McMillan said: “This funding will be a great help in getting the annual Fernhill Gala day back up and running.

“It has always been a well-loved event within our community, and we are looking forward to having it back.”

Council Leader and Chair of the Community Planning Partnership, Joe Fagan, said: “It’s great news that PB money is helping to bring back Fernhill Gala Day.

“I know that in the past the whole community has come together to enjoy the day and I am sure the next event will be exactly the same.

“Well done to Fernhill Communities Together on their successful application, they are great champions of building community spirit in their local area.”