A COMMUNITY chest of £30,000 is up for grabs to community groups in the east of Preston.

The East Preston Community Chest fund will give out grants of up to £200 for the first six months, to groups which demonstrate at least one of the following criteria:

improve community spirit

involve a number of local people

provide on-going benefits

make efficient use of resources

improve confidence and self-esteem.

The planning of the scheme is all down to local people and groups from the Callon, Farringdon Park, Ribbleton, Brookfield and Poets estate areas will be eligible to apply. Barbara Cogle of the Moor Nook estate management board said the scheme was good for the people of east Preston.

"They are trying to do something for their community by getting projects up and running.

"In most cases, any amount of help is appreciated," she added.

Chris Hart of the Lancashire Global Education Centre, the organisation behind the scheme, said: "The aim of the fund is not just to give out money but to build and strengthen the local community.

"Any groups in the area that are running projects for a charitable purpose -- that is, for the good of the community -- can apply.

"That includes people looking for start up costs, expenses for organising a street party, equipment for a community garden, room hire, training events and professional support to name a few ideas."

Anyone interested in applying for a grant, should call Chris on (01772) 252299. Applicants will be visited by inspectors at a future date.