Charities in Preston are missing out on grants of up to £25,000, according to the Local Heritage Initiative.

Heritage chiefs said although the scheme has been running for six years it has never paid out cash to a worthy cause in Preston.

The scheme pays for projects that relate to customs and traditions and has helped more than 1,200 communities across the country with grants totalling more than £18million.

Susannah England, the Countryside Agency's Local Heritage Initiative adviser for the North West, said: "Preston needs someone to get the ball rolling and for a local group to apply for funding for a community-based project.

"Given its fascinating history and heritage we're surprised not to have had an application.

"There are many aspects of its heritage such as its museums and art collections, its Royal Charters and strong sporting and maritime traditions which could be explored."

Councillor Veronica Afrin, cabinet member for regeneration, community and leisure services, said she has never heard of the scheme before and vowed to investigate ways in which community groups could apply for the money.

She said: "I am surprised by this because Preston does exceptionally well in getting grant money, we are the envy of lots of other places in Lancashire.

"I can instantly think of people who should have applied, I will make it my business to look into it."

For information about getting money from the Local Heritage Initiative visit www.lhi.org.uk or call Gillian Woodcock on 01768 895931.