Set up 25 years ago, the trustees meet on a quarterly basis to allocate grants to local community-projects and not-for-profit organisations, donating more than £3.5 million since its creation in 1997. Manchester airport contributes £100,000 per year to the fund, which is topped up by fines levied on airlines that breach noise restrictions.
Recent beneficiaries include Mobberley Junior Football Club in East Cheshire, Philips Park and Southern Cemetery in Chorlton, Newton Cricket Club in Hyde, Lach Dennis wildflower meadow project in West Cheshire and Webb Lane Allotments in Stockport. Grants were also awarded to local scout groups and public parks.
