MONEY has been made available for East Lancashire folk who have a bright idea to improve the neighbourhood in which they live.

The Lancashire Environmental Action Fund, sponsored and administered by the county council, offers funding and advice to people who come up with innovative projects.

Grants of up to £500 can be obtained and the type of scheme funding is available for:

Repairs, recycling and composting.

training events and discussion groups to help communities work together.

Local exchange trading schemes.

Wildlife, wild flower and bulb planting projects.

Community gardens, tidy ups and the provision of local facilities.

Conservation and improvement of the environment.

County Council chairman Coun Irene Short said: "The LEAF is an important way for the council to help people in Lancashire improve their environment.

"I am sure there are hundreds of community groups and individuals throughout Lancashire who have some good ideas for projects and training to improve their local areas.

"I urge them to get hold of an LEAF application form and bid for a share of the funding available."

LEAF application forms are available from Tim Blythe, Lancashire County Council Environment Directorate, PO Box 9, Guild House, Cross Street, Preston, PR1 8RD. Phone 01772 264186.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.