CASH grants will be up for grabs from next month to preserve our local heritage.

The Local Heritage Initiative opens its latest round of bidding on September 1 to local communities in East Lancashire and across the country and they will be encouraged to apply for hand-outs of up to £15,000 to allow them to hang onto their historical treasures. The initiative, which is run by the Countryside Agency, has funding to the tune of £9 million available to all manner groups including civic societies, conservation volunteers and childcare networks.

The aim is for local communities to assess their local heritage, carry out action, gain support from local organisations and sustain their chosen project.

The Local Heritage Initiative does not fund individual features unless they form part of a broader scheme.

Canda Smith, who heads the initiative, said: "We recognise that even a small grant can make a vital difference to a local community and we are actively seeking enquiries from local groups for funding for heritage work.

"We have advisers who can guide groups through the application process, which we have attempted to make as simple and as straightforward as possible."

More information about the initiative can be obtained on 01226 719019.