LOCAL youngsters are invited to apply for cash awards of up to £10,000 to fund exciting projects that make connections between our lives in the UK and those who live in countries on the Greenwich Meridian line.

The On the Line Millennium Awards scheme, supported by the Millennium Commission, is a unique opportunity for 18-35 year olds in Lancaster, Morecambe and surrounding areas to organise a project of a lifetime and change the way people in your community see the developing world.

Funding is available for projects in the broad areas of sport and leisure, art and culture, education, community or the environment, which make connections with communities in West Africa and promote global understanding.

Channel 4 broadcaster and founder of On the Line, Jon Snow said: "Whether you want to organise a Ghanaian-style street festival in your local area or travel to discover music in Mali, the On the Line Millennium Awards scheme is your chance to organise a project of a lifetime, all you need is a great idea and we will help you develop your project plan. Call now for an application pack on 0845 123 4243."