VOLUNTARY and community groups are being urged to apply for more than £250,000 of new funding in Lancashire.

The cash is being made available in amounts between £1,000 and £5,000 in a bid to ease the pressure on small groups that are struggling with fund- ing cuts.

Around £210,000 will be available to fund general voluntary group activities.

A further £50,000 is being made available to fund organisations specifically involved in activities, such as drama, music, or visual arts.

County Coun Mark Perks said: “This gives community and voluntary groups another vital opportunity to apply for grant funding to cover strategic areas of their work.

“These grants fund major, strategic projects that fit in with the county council’s priorities.

“They can be vital to organisations at a time when budgets are tight.

“We would encourage groups to apply, even if they didn’t receive funding in the first round of grants in April.

“The application process has changed but we’re here to help,” added County Coun Perks.

Many voluntary groups have seen their funding slashed as local authorities have had their budgets cut.

Lancashire County Council said the cash in the scheme had remained at the same level as last year.

Anyone with enquiries can call Misbah Bhatti, from the grants team, on 01772 530818.