CUMNOCK’S Hillside School does so much for its local community.

Now it’s the community’s turn to help them.

The local facility - which caters for kids with special needs - has been short-listed for the Bank of Scotland Community Fund.

An award of £3000 is on offer to the community group that secures the most votes.

Three further grants of £2000, £1000 and £500 are available to the other three community groups shortlisted.

Head teacher Debbie Skeoch said: “An award would enable the school to purchase specialist outdoor play items for the grounds including sensory play equipment and would support the school in providing quality outdoor play experiences for our pupils.

“I would be grateful if you could support the Community Fund vote. Voting is now open and runs until Friday 10 October 2014.” Hillside School has consistently been praised for its work helping local kids. Back in 2010 it was presented with the Health and Wellbeing Award at an awards ceremony in Glasgow.

And most recently, it passed its Education Scotland inspection with flying colours.

The inspection revealed that the school excelled when it came to its relationship between teachers, instructors, ancillary staff and classroom assistants, providing the youngsters with a quality of learning across the board.

The easiest way to vote is online at www.bankofscotland.co.uk/communityfund Earlier this year, you nominated over 1,200 community groups across Scotland. 232 causes in 58 communities were then shortlisted for the Community Fund award.

Four local causes in every area will be awarded funding depending on the number of votes they receive. The group with the most votes will get £3,000, the next £2,000, £1,000 and finally, £500.

Votes can be cast on the website via email, via Twitter, by SMS or in your local Bank of Scotland branch.