Money is available to improve the lives of residents in Horwich.

The local town council has opened applications for funding to support community based projects.

Horwich Town Council will be awarding its final round of grant funding for the current financial year to voluntary and community organisations “serving the residents of the parish”.

Would-be applicants have until the Tuesday, February 28 to declare their interest which will then be considered by the council in March.

Grants are available up to a maximum of £500.

Mayor of Horwich, Cllr Steven Chadwick, said: “The town council budgets every year for grants for community projects or non-profit organisations that are either based in Horwich or benefit the people of Horwich.

“It’s all about the town council helping to maintain some civic pride in the town. In the times we’re currently in I think that civic pride is really important.

“Any specific projects or community groups can apply, and I would encourage as many as possible to do so, including those who have applied or received funding before as long as it’s for the people of Horwich and for the benefit of the town.”

The Bolton News: Mayor of Horwich, Cllr Steven ChadwickMayor of Horwich, Cllr Steven Chadwick (Image: Horwich Town Council)

Recent awards have including funding to the Bridge Church, the Public Hall Veterans Bowling Club, and Horwich National Spiritualist Church and Horwich Community Centre to set up their 'Warm Spaces' during the winter months.

There was also funding awarded to the Wright Place Luncheon Club to provide Christmas lunch for all their members.

Cllr Chadwick added: “Previously the funding has helped groups that support young people to elderly groups.

“We’ve had schools apply for particular projects - one school applied to take part in a flower show at Tatton Park.

“We’ve helped senior citizens by funding their Christmas meals.

“So, it’s quite a wide remit. There has been applications from all sections of the community in the past and the funding is there for everyone.

For those interested in applying for the funding, application forms are available from Horwich Community Centre, Beaumont Road, Horwich.

Alternatively, people can or email townclerk@horwich.gov.uk. It can also be downloaded from www.horwich.gov.uk under the ‘Sponsorships & Grants’ section.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at lewis.finney@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @lewisfinney18.