COMMUNITY groups in Hambleton can now apply for a share of £70,000.

Hambleton District Council’s Investing in Communites Grant scheme has been renewed this year, after last year awarding 15 community projects more than £27,000.

Grants are available to community organisations looking to take responsibility for managing and maintaining District Council assets, such as play areas and recreational land, with up to £5,000 available from the Asset Transfer grant to help cover legal costs, help with business planning or undertake improvement work.

The council has also allocated funding for a Community Grants Programme to help voluntary groups with projects that will benefit the district’s economic growth, promote healthy lifestyles, minimise impact on the environment and encourage people to be more involved in delivering local services. The deadline for applications is Friday May 16.

For more information or to apply contact Peter Cole on 01609 767212 or go to hambleton.gov.uk/grants