The Co-op, which has supported 24 Tenby local charities in just 18 months, is widening its criteria so even more groups can benefit from its Local Community Fund.

When the scheme was launched in September 2016, the beneficiaries were limited to local charities, but now not-for-profit organisations that do not have charitable status can apply.

Co-op members, who receive a five per cent reward for themselves with a further one per cent going to local causes when they buy own-brand products, have a say in how the money is allocated.

The Co-op, which is looking for the causes that will benefit from the fund in 2019, is currently backing a variety of organisations, including Tenby and Saundersfoot First Responders, SwimNarberth CIO Community Swimming Pool, and Llanteg Village Hall Enhancement.

Across the UK, nearly 3,000 organisations dedicated to supporting young people have received £5.4m, while £4m was shared by social inclusion charities, with a further £2.9m going to health-related causes.

Rebecca Birkbeck, director community engagement at the Co-op, said: “We want to support organisations that bring people together to make a difference in their local community. By widening our criteria we can encourage even more organisations to apply for the fund.”

Causes wanting more information about applying to be supported by the next round of the Co-op’s Local Community Fund should visit coop.co.uk/causes