Announcing new grants worth up to £2 million, the Welsh social justice minister has pledged to invest in "grassroots facilities".

Edwina Hart announced details on Tuesday of 28 new grants aimed at "revitalising community buildings and supporting voluntary activities".

The funding comes from the Welsh Assembly Government's community facilities and activities programme, which has a total budget of £7.7 million.

Along with investment in community buildings, the grants will also help a creche set up in a deprived area and a group that supports people with mental illnesses.

"This is important investment in grassroots facilities for communities in Wales," said Hart.

"We have a rich heritage of miners' institutes, village halls and church buildings which have helped build strong, safe and creative communities.

"However, many need redevelopment or improvement to be fit for the 21st Century.

"Groups throughout Wales work incredibly hard, usually unpaid, to provide these key resources, and I am proud that this Welsh Assembly Government scheme can now help them achieve their aspirations for the future."

Hart also disclosed that there had been 78 applications for grants during the latest round of bidding.

"I am pleased that this grant programme is proving so accessible and attractive to voluntary and community groups throughout Wales," she added.