THIS year’s first round of Shadsworth with Whitebirk Big Local grants is now open.

Grants of up to £1,000 are up for grabs for ward residents and local volunteer-led or staffed groups.

The deadline for applications is noon on Friday, July 5.

The Big Local is a new initiative that aims to create a better community in Shadsworth with Whitebirk by enabling and encouraging different groups to thrive.