WIGAN Council is again opening up its Community Treasure Chest.

Voluntary and community groups all over the area are invited to apply for funding.

The popular fund is paid for by Wigan Council and Douglas Valley Community Ltd, the successor organisation to City Challenge.

Projects which qualify for help include those which boost community development, environmental improvement, crime prevention, economic development, health and fitness, and measures to combat deprivation or unemployment.

Money will not be available for day-to-day running costs, schemes that have already taken place, political projects or for routine maintenance works.

A Metro planning department spokesman said: "Greater priority will be given to new organisations and groups who have not previously received assistance from the Community Chest, although groups who have received grants previously are still eligible to apply."

The closing date for the first round of applications will be June 18. Closing dates for the further two rounds will be September 17 and December 3.

To discuss grants or for an application form and guidelines contact Annette Unsworth on 01942-404242, or write to her at the Borough Planning Department, Civic Buildings, New Market Street, Wigan, WN1 1RPl.

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