FLOOD-hit community groups in surrounding boroughs - including Hillingdon and Ealing - are being offered donations from the Heathrow Community Fund.

It is putting aside extra cash to help groups recover from damage caused by flooding.

Donations are being offered towards the cost of replacing vital equipment lost to the flood waters and the recent storms, in cases where there is no help available from insurance or statutory funding.

Organisations can apply for help through the fund’s Communities Together grant stream, using the Communities Together application form.

A spokesman said: "The fund has helped many community groups with grants and we’re concerned that so much of their good work will be destroyed by the floods.

"It could be damaged IT equipment, flooded community gardens or allotments or furniture at a community hall or youth group."

Trustees will look at each application on its merits, awarding funds to the groups they feel are most in need.

Grant applicants will also need to supply evidence of loss, together with quotes for the cost of replacement.

The awards are funded in a unique way – through foreign and British currency, which is donated every day by passengers in Heathrow’s baggage halls and departure lounges.

The scheme is open to schools and community groups. This could be a youth club, residents' association, charity or even a group of like-minded neighbours.