Community groups across the borough are being encouraged to bid for funding to improve the environment, prevent crime and encourage economic regeneration.

The invitation comes from "Your Wirral" - a £250,000 grants programme jointly run by Wirral Council and housing association Magenta Living.

Community or voluntary organisations can apply for a grant of up to £2,500 to address one or more of seven themes, which are:

• Creating an attractive and safe environment. 

• Contributing to community economic regeneration. 

• Preventing crime or reducing the fear of crime

• Providing employment and training for local people.

• Benefitting local people who face discrimination.

• Improving community facilities,

• Engaging communities to improve quality of life.

Councillor George Davies, cabinet member for housing and communities, said: “There are a lot of different ways our community and voluntary partners can use Your Wirral funding, from environmental improvements to providing training opportunities.

“Developing strong, resilient communities will play a key role in enabling us to deliver on our pledges for 2020.”

The funding will go to help groups such as The New Brighteners whose latest project is to help create more beach and litter picking groups in locations across the peninsula.

Brightener member Dave Peddie said: “Your Wirral funding will enable us to kick-start four new groups in West Kirby, Egremont, Hoylake and Wallasey Central Park, and is a very exciting project."

Brian Simpson, chief executive of Magenta Living, said: “Your Wirral has provided more than £2m in grants to Wirral residents since it began in 2007.

“It has enabled communities to come together on many worthwhile initiatives, and I am sure that this round of funding will be just as successful.”

Deadline for applications is 5pm, Friday, March 4.

Apply online at www.wirral.gov.uk/yourwirral