SENIOR citizens and OAP groups can claim up to £10,000 for community projects for the elderly.

The Help the Aged Millennium Awards support schemes as diverse as luncheon clubs, volunteer transport schemes and sports and leisure activities.

The grants are open to individuals or groups and rural projects are being particularly encouraged to apply.

Schemes that have received awards so far include a nostalgia project featuring music and entertainment in Barnoldswick, which received £3,000, and a lunch and social club in Hoddlesden which received £1,400.

Awards co-ordinator Dale Smith said projects did not have to be ambitious or unusual to be considered.

"With a share of up to £2 million of lottery funds up for grabs, the chances of getting cash are high," he said.

Further information and application forms are available by phoning 0171 250 4477.

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