The Wimbledon Foundation has awarded £1 million to 55 charities and community groups in Merton and Wandsworth.

The Foundation is the official charity of The All England Lawn Tennis Club and The Championships.

Among the beneficiaries is the Rah Rah Theatre Company in Raynes Park which specialises in drama therapy techniques.

The money will be used to fund four touring productions supporting people with learning difficulties.

Jude Spooner, Managing Director of the Rah Rah Theatre Company, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Wimbledon Foundation for this three-year investment in our work. The funding will help us to continue bringing theatre, music and shared creative experiences to older people and adults with learning difficulties across Merton and Wandsworth, helping to reduce isolation and improve wellbeing. Multi-year funding like this makes a huge difference to a small charity such as ours, giving us the stability to plan ahead, strengthen the organisation and ensure that more people can access the benefits of the arts for years to come.”