A social centre which had to close for a year after its meeting place was damaged by fire is the latest winner of a Water Works Award.

Keighley Over 50s Project has been given £500 to spend on new equipment under the £10,000 scheme launched by Yorkshire Water and the Telegraph & Argus.

The centre, which has been running for 14 years, was re-opened last year after the roof of Keighley Shared Church hall caved in during a fire in July 2001.

The project is run by a paid member of staff from Keighley Voluntary Services, with a team of 15 volunteers, including Doris Croad, who is 86. Mrs Croad, who has been a volunteer for about four years and often walks from her home in Riddlesden to Keighley, said: "The project is a social thing and provides people with a bit of company."

Sue Bradley, of Keighley Voluntary Services, said: "It's wonderful to have the money as we will be able to refurbish - something which is much needed. The social side of the project is very important. We provide a meeting place for people to come together weekly to have a good time."

The project, open to everyone over the age of 50, serves light refreshments for a small cost on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 10am until 2pm, at the hall off Church Green, Keighley.

It also organises sales and day trips as well as encouraging organisations such as Keighley Information Service to drop in and talk to people.

The money will be spent on items such as a new teapot, tablecloths, table decorations and signs advertising the project.

The awards scheme is being held as Yorkshire Water undertakes a £75 million three-year scheme to improve Bradford's sewage system.

The company acknowledges the work will cause major disruption to residents and has come up with the scheme as a way to support affected communities.

Each month a panel of representatives from the T&A and Yorkshire Water picks the group it feels is making the best contribution to the community.

If you think your group should receive a Water Works Award then write to the address below and tell us why. All entries must include a daytime phone number.

The groups which missed out this month will automatically be considered for future awards.

To enter your group for an award write to the Water Works Award, c/o Hannah Hughes, Telegraph & Argus, 17, Kirkgate, Shipley, BD18 3QW.