Olympics inspire £800,000 green grants

London community groups are being handed £800,000 to boost green living using the Olympics as inspiration, it was announced today.

Four grants are going to projects to turn derelict land into green spaces, encourage recycling and healthy lives and recruit sustainability role models, including Olympic athletes.

The awards were announced by Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman on a visit to the Olympic Park and will come from her department's "inspiring sustainable living" fund. Groundwork London will use its grant to transform 20 areas of derelict land using volunteers.

It has already earmarked two spaces in Woolwich and Hackney for conversion to community allotments.

Ms Spelman said: "London 2012 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to inspire change. These projects will contribute by making a practical difference in the community and leave a lasting green legacy."