Invitation to share in £500,000

Voluntary and community groups are being invited to apply for a share on £500,000 from Stroud District Council's Rural Community Investment Scheme.

In 2006 70 organisations successfully applied for funding with grants ranging from £225 to £125,000.

"We're particularly interested in green initiatives, but all relevant applications will be considered," said Karen Toole, from Stroud council.

Advice evenings for applicants will be held at Ebley Mill on 9 and 29 May.

New applicants

In the 2006 round of awards, Eastcombe scouts and guides received £3,000 to provide new kitchen facilities and disabled toilets to its hall.

The Hardwicke Players, an amateur theatrical group who raise money for local charities received £225 to help with their general operations and Ashmead village hall received £650 to help refurbish toilet and kitchen facilities.

"We are keen to see applications from people that have not applied before, such as social groups and arts organisations that may need new equipment or funding for a specific project," said Ms Toole.