VOLUNTARY groups in Ramsbottom can take advantage of a funding initiative for local groups to help kickstart new ideas.

The Kickstart budget awards are available to most community and voluntary groups within Ramsbottom and Tottington.

Applications will be considered from any public, private or voluntary organisation with proposals which would help benefit communities within the two areas.

Recent groups to have been awarded grants include; Holcombe Brook Methodist Church for the pushchair club, 16th Ramsbottom Rainbows, 1262 Air Cadets, Tottington South School and Emmanuel Church Holcombe.

For more information and to find out how to apply for a grant contact Ramsbottom and Tottington Area Board on 0161 2535000.