COMMUNITY projects in Dedham's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are being invited to apply for a share of a £30,000 fund.

Community groups and initiatives across the Dedham Vale and Stour Valleyar being encouraged to apply for the money.

The Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Stour Valley is seeking applications from community projects that represent the widest range of society and support equality of opportunities to access the funds.

A spokesman for the AONB said: “The grants wish to support projects that show innovation, social inclusion, sustainability, public benefit, and partnership working. Individuals as well as organisations such as schools, businesses and community groups are all welcome to apply for funding.

“The grants are open to a wide range of applications that benefit the area, its communities, environment, economy, and access.”

Previous examples of projects funded include art workshops for people with mental illness, new fencing and gates for nature and wildlife reserves, rural training for young people, as well as visitor information at well-known landmarks in the area.  

For more information about the various grants that are available and the criteria and funding guidelines visit dedhamvalestourvalley.org or contact Oka Last, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Grants Officer, on 01394 445225 or by emailing AONBgrants@suffolk.gov.uk.