APPLICATIONS for funding are now open to groups and organisations.

Horwich Town Council awards grants each year to local voluntary and non-profit organisations that are located in and serve the parish.

The council gives out sums from £100 to £300, though sometimes larger awards are considered.

This is the final round of grant funding for the current financial year. The closing date is February 28, with applications being considered in March.

Applicants must be voluntary and community groups which benefit all or some of the area, or residents in Horwich.

Application forms are available in the Horwich Community Centre and Horwich Library.

Alternatively, applicants can download a form from the town council website, or email townclerk@horwich.gov.uk, or phone 01204691090.

Previous awards have included funding for Horwich Public Hall Vets Bowling Club and Horwich Public Hall Ladies’ Bowling Club.

Other leisure organisations including the Horwich Community Choir have received awards.

Money has been given to community groups including Stocks Residents’ Association and Horwich and Blackrod Childminding.

Funding was also given for events held by Friends of Horwich Memory Café and St Catherine’s Primary School Parents’ Association, who organised the first Christmas Lantern Parade.

A town council grant also provided support for the Wright Place Luncheon Club and the Friday Club, which held Christmas parties for the elderly and vulnerable.