COMMUNITY groups in Bishop Auckland are being encouraged to apply for up to £1,000 in funding.

The south-west part of town – Henknowle, Cockton Hill, Woodhouse Close Estate, Tindale, St Helen Auckland and West Auckland – has been given £1m as part of the Big Local scheme.

The Gaunless Gateway Partnership, which is made up of people who live and work in the area, is working with the Big Local Trust to improve the lives of residents living in these areas.

Residents Clive Auld and Lee Brownson are heading the group and are in the process of finalising the details of a project, which will cost the majority of the seven-figure sum.

However, money has been set aside to ensure community group see the benefits too.

The groups can apply for a grant of between £100 and £1,000 providing they are based in one of the areas and their work represents employment and jobs; activities for children and young people; intergenerational activities; health and well-being and crime and community safety.

Bishop Auckland and Shildon Area Action Partnership is helping the partnership with its work but will not make the decisions.

Mr Brownson said: “There are grants of up to £1,000 available to community groups to help improve the lives of people in Bishop Auckland.”

Mr Auld said: “This is part of the bigger project and this money contributes to the Gaunless Gateway big plan.

“We hope it can be an annual grant for community groups and we are appealing to them to apply.

“We want to give them a helping hand. It is not a terrific amount but we think it will make a difference.”

For the full list of criteria or to apply call Bishop Auckland and Shildon AAP on 03000-268663 or e-mail bishopshildonaap@durham.gov.uk

The closing date is noon on Friday, October 31.

The Big Local is an opportunity for people in 150 areas across England to use at least £1m to make a massive and lasting positive difference to their communities.

Each project will involve individuals, groups and organisations who want to make the area in which they live a better place.

For more details about the group visit the Facebook page South West Bishop Auckland Big Local or follow @BishAuckBigLoc on Twitter.