A fund which was set up to help areas of “hidden deprivation” in Elmbridge has raised its initial target of £100,000 in two years.

The Esher Neighbourhood Fund (ENF) was set up in March 2011 by a steering group with members from the Community Foundation for Surrey (CFS), members of the Lower Green Community Association, Dr Helen Bowcock and Esher and Walton MP Dominic Raab.

Dr Bowcock’s report entitled Hidden Surrey revealed that despite being one of the best places to live in the UK, Elmbridge has areas of deprivation and need which do not benefit from Government funding.

The fund, which was the first of its kind in the area, allows residents to give money directly to support the needs of the immediate community, particularly areas which are in hidden deprivation.

The target amount was reached due to donations from private individuals and Nesta, a charity that receives funds from the Nesta Trust, which matched all funds.

The £100,000 will go towards helping the Lower Green Community Association and will be protected in a ring-fenced fund, preventing its use elsewhere.

Mr Raab said: “It has been a terrific achievement and a testament to all those involved, particularly John Jessop the chairman and Community Foundation for Surrey and it is a great reflection on Lower Green and the wider community who have stepped up to the plate.”

At an ENF panel meeting last week, it was announced the first grant of £2,000 will go toward administrative support for the Lower Green Centre.

At the same meeting, John Jessop, chairman of the fund, announced his decision to stand down and the fund now seeks someone high profile as a replacement.

Mr Jessop said: “The fund has the potential to evolve into something which will be of significant long term value to the various neighbourhoods in Esher district, but it now needs fresh energy and new ideas.”

Mr Raab is also keen to expand the school of the initiative and broaden the concept to include support for the wider community outside of Lower Green and Esher.

To do so, more people with expertise in fundraising and leadership are invited to get involved and Mr Raab said leaving money to the fund in a will would be a great way to help the local area benefit in the future.

Those interested in getting involved as a volunteer, panel member of chairman should email Mr Raab at raabd@parliament.uk.