ORGANISATIONS in Rudheath and Witton have the chance to enjoy a share of £20,000 in grant funding to boost their activities or events.

The money is available from The Rudheath and Witton Together Partnership, which is spearheading plans to regenerate the area over the next decade.

The plans are the result of the award of £1 million in Big Local funding from the Big Lottery in 2012 to both communities.

Following its development and consultation phase the partnership has awarded a number of grants to projects aimed at benefiting local residents.

In addition a grant scheme has been created to allow organisations and group to apply for up to £500 twice in the same financial year.

The £20,000 grant scheme will run for two years, and is aimed at benefiting a range of groups such as sports clubs, Scout groups, schools, elderly people’s groups and bingo clubs.

“We are keen to raise awareness of the small grant scheme,” said partnership administrator Fiona Cowley.

“People can download an application form off our website, and we hope to be able to deal with applications in a few weeks.

“Organisations seeking a grant do not have to be based in Rudheath or Witton, but projects must primarily benefit residents in those communities.

“Groups can also contact me if they have any questions about the grant scheme.”

The partnership has awarded major grants to five projects.

My Money Counts will provide advice and support to help people manage their finances, and will be run by Cheshire West CAB.

The scheme has been awarded £74,000 over the next two years, and Rudheath Social Club has been awarded £35,000 to improve the football pitches and buildings at the club to enable more people to use the facilities.

Green Doctor Local Champions, which has been awarded £6,400, will train volunteers to provide advice on how to reduce gas and electricity bills, switch suppliers or apply for grants and funds.

Grozone Learning Adventure is a practical horticultural training programme benefiting young people from the University of Chester Academy in Northwich, and has been awarded £36,000.

Young people and local residents will document the progress and achievements of the Rudheath and Witton project through Cheshire Media Academy Communications, which has been awarded £9,900.

Any organisations or groups interested in applying for a grant can visit rudheathandwitton.org.uk and click on the ‘what’s going on’ link, or call Fiona on 723160.