Community groups in Moray have received £40,000 to help cut down on social isolation across the region.
Diverse outfits that help bring people together were celebrated during a “Money for Moray” event in Rothes on Saturday.
Representatives from more than a dozen organisations each gave a two-minute speech about their aims and objectives.
About 100 members of the public then decided on how best to split up the £40,000 pot.
Seven groups, deemed to be most in need of the cash, were awarded the maximum possible donation of £4,000.
The Keith and District Men’s Shed was given the top sum to help with keeping retired men busy by sharing and developing their practical skills.
Riding High, which offers surfing sessions for children with autism and other disabilities, also received £4,000.
Dyke Parish Church was granted the maximum amount to create disabled access so that people with mobility problems can attend the venue.
And charities which help domestic abuse victims, offer work training and support mental health all benefited too.
The chairman of Elgin Community Council, Alistair Kennedy, was one of the main organisers of the event.
Mr Kennedy said: “All of these projects alleviate social isolation in one way or another, they all tackle that one problem.
“Things like making churches more accessible will serve a practical, beneficial purpose.
“Every penny that was donated will help people to get out into their communities more.”
Mr Kennedy added that he thanked Moray Council’s community support unit for their assistance in staging the gathering.
The Scottish Government’s minister for local government and housing, Kevin Stewart, attended the event and made a speech praising each of the groups present.
The cash was supplied by the government’s community choices fund.