AN international charity with roots in Bo'ness has received a £24,922 award.
The cash will allow it to get more British kids involved in its Peruvian voluntary work.
The Vine Trust, recognised by Lloyd's TSB Foundation for Scotland, is headed by former Old Kirk minister, Reverend Willie McPherson.
Its chairman is Revere
nd Albert Bogle of St Andrew's Church, and Branches gift shop in the town, manned by local volunteers since 1985, provides year-round support.
The funding boost will pay for a development worker to carry out school visits for a year.
Mr McPherson said: ''We've had a lot of enquiries from schools wanting to develop education links, sending secondary pupils over, but we've not had the capacity to make that happen. We're immensely grateful.''
The charity's programmes in Lima and other Peruvian cities provide a haven for homeless youngsters vulnerable to violent attacks, neglect, substance and sexual abuse.
Mr McPherson added: ''The pupils would be going to help build homes for street children and at the same time have a cultural experience.
"They'd come face-to-face with issues relating to poverty and how people survive.''
The Vine Trust's work in transforming Peruvian communities, which also includes medical projects and establishing sustainable businesses, will be recognised today (Friday) by Falkirk Council.
Provost Pat Reid will host a civic reception at the town hall, attended by both ministers plus guests.
The Lloyds donation was part of a £1m-plus round of awards to 98 Scottish charities.
For more on the Vine Trust, check out www.vinetrust.org
