Charities and community groups in and around Chelmsford have a chance to earn their share of a £3,000 cash windfall – thanks to the UK’s fastest growing builders merchant.

Selco Builders Warehouse has officially opened its Chelmsford branch on Westway, creating 50 jobs.

To mark the occasion, Selco is giving charities and community groups in the city the chance to enter a competition to receive a cash boost through the Selco Stars scheme.

It is open to charities and community groups who are invited to explain in no more than 100 words how the money would benefit them.

In addition, Selco will also donate £1,000 each to Global’s Make Some Noise and Macmillan Cancer Support to support the charity’s work in the area.

Ricky Lugg, branch manager at Selco Chelmsford, said: “We’re very excited to be opening this branch, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by offering a great opportunity to charities in the area.

“So many organisations do such fantastic work in our community and we are very proud to be able to give them the chance to win a sum of money which will make a real difference.”

Entries can be made by filling in a form on the Selco website  www.selcobw.com/chelmsfordstars

Entries must be submitted by midnight on Thursday, July 19.

Selco Chelmsford, one of 66 branches in England and Wales, will supply everything needed to build a house or carry out refurb jobs, including doors, windows, insulation, roofing, heating, plumbing supplies, lighting, electrical products, kitchens, bathrooms and timber.

As well as offering trade services, Selco Hire and a café in branch, Selco also has a strong digital presence including a 30 minute Click & Collect service and a free Project List app which allows tradespeople to plan, manage, and quote for all jobs – as well as complete purchases - through their smartphone.

For more information on Selco visit www.selcobw.com