by business editor Trevor Sturgess

The new boss of an organisation that has handed out £12million to good causes across the county is appealing for more donors.

Carol Lynch, from Kings Hill, West Malling, has taken over as chief executive of the Kent Community Foundation. She replaces Eric Watts who continues as a trustee.

The grant-making Foundation has distributed more than £12million to some 4,000 projects in the past nine years, benefiting tens of thousands of people.

Last year, it gave away nearly £3m - out of charitable income close to £4million - to 500 organisations.

The former civil engineer who worked on the Channel Tunnel construction project switched to the voluntary sector 16 years ago.

She said the Foundation was about matching people who wanted to support the local community with those who had a need.

"One of my first priorities will be finding more Kent individuals, organisations and companies willing to take up the Grassroots Endowment Challenge and set up philanthropic grant-making funds to benefit the community," she said.

Pledges under the scheme can attract a further 50 per cent contribution from the Government.

"This is a marvellous opportunity for potential philanthropists who would like to support the local community but need our help on how to go about it."

She said she was attracted to the Foundation, which is based in Smeeth, near Ashford, by its charitable heart and businesslike approach.

"Being based here and understanding local community groups' needs, KCF can give philanthropists peace of mind that their support is going to be used professionally and effectively so that it really makes a difference."

Donors and those seeking funding for a worthy project should ring 01303 814 500.