A VOLUNTARY group is looking for people to pitch ideas to keep the community warm this winter.

Maldon CVS is hosting a series of soup evenings where groups can present crowdfunding ideas.

They have the chance to win money raised from donations for the homemade soup to help people in need stay warm through the cold season.

Sarah Troop, of Maldon CVS, said: “The soup event next week will be the first of three being held over the winter to fund ideas to help people at risk of the cold.

“The group will then listen to three ideas from the community, this can be community groups or charities, parish councils or from groups of residents.

“Ideas funded last year were materials for knitting blankets and scarves for older people, promotion of a lend-a-hand scheme for vulnerable people, and care packages for people who are unemployed.

“The first place will win £300 and the other two will win £100 each.”

The first event is

on Monday from noon at Fullbridge Church.