The South Wales Echo recently joined forces with John Lewis Partnership to launch a project that offers grants of up to £500 to community groups and charities. EMILY WOODROW today profiles the latest group to apply for the money.

THREE young members of Penarth Petanque Club are desperate to show off their skill and talent at the Home Nations Championship in Swansea later this year.

But they’re not allowed to participate without competition boules – which cost around £50 per set.

That’s why they, along with the other 32 members of the group, are asking for £252 to buy three sets of these special boules and three boule bags.

Club secretary Judith Smith thinks the three boys – Marc Falconer, 16, and brothers Jesse and Sam Lipetz-Robic, 12 and 16 – stand a real chance of winning if they’re able to participate.

She said: “My husband Tony has been coaching them and they are really good.

“They’ve been playing in our league for the first time this year and have really stepped up to the mark.

“They’ve shown real determination and talent and deserve to be able to compete.”

Judith, a human resources officer at the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, said the club made a real effort last year to recruit juniors.

Teenager Marc first took up the sport to support his application for his Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, but has enjoyed playing so much he’s decided to stay with the club and compete to represent Wales.

Judith, of Penylan, said: “The problem is he’s borrowing competition boules from someone else, but they are too big for him so he’s not getting the best out of his game.

“If we don’t get the grant the boys’ parents will have to find the money themselves.

“Money is a real struggle at the club as we’re totally self funded and run by volunteers.

“Members’ fees just about cover our costs, but there’s nothing left over to buy much-needed equipment like the competition boules.”

Judith believes the grant would be great for Penarth Petanque Club as it would send out a positive message to other youngsters thinking about joining.

“It would also be fantastic for the boys as they would have their own equipment and wouldn’t have to borrow off other people,” said the 50 year old.

“It would give them a real sense of achievement and confidence in their ability.

“Everyone at the club would be completely thrilled.”

Councillor Gareth Aubrey, of Llandaff, added: “The John Lewis Community Grants Scheme is a great thing.

“Any organisation that wants to make a positive impact on the community is welcome.”