SKIPTON Town Council is inviting applications from town-based community groups and voluntary organisations for its annual community grant scheme.

Cash is available to fund special projects, improve services or purchase new or additional equipment.

Dave Parker, the council’s chief officer, said: “The council is pleased to be able to offer the scheme again and we’ve taken into consideration comments made about the support our community groups need to cover some of their operating costs, rather than us just focusing grants on the purchase of items of equipment.”

Grants will be considered for any amount from £50, but must benefit groups based within the parish of Skipton. Grants cannot be given to individuals.

There is no maximum amount, but the council will always try to benefit as many organisations as possible, and grants in excess of £1,000 are rarely given.

Mr Parker said: “The council values greatly the work done by the many community groups – and we are always keen to support as many as we can. The grant scheme is just one way we can achieve this.”

Application forms are available from the town council offices above Barclays Bank on Skipton High Street, by email from admin@skiptontowncouncil.gov.uk or by calling 01756 700553. They must be returned no later than Friday, July 18.