APPLICATIONS for funding are being sought from groups which support children, young people, employment, education and older people.

Grants from £500 to £5,000 are available for such groups in Ferryhill, Chilton, West Cornforth and Bishop Middleham, from a budget of £25,000 set aside by the 4 Together Area Action Partnership (AAP) for projects that meet its priorities for 2016 to 2017.

The partnership’s priorities are decided by the local community at a series of public open days and workshops.

The priorities chosen for the coming year are employment, job prospects, education and training, activities for children and young people and older people.

An AAP spokesman said: “Projects should promote and encourage people in the 4 Together Partnership area to feel healthier, happier and/or safer in their community.

“Applications are only for capital items.

“If you are unsure whether your project meets the criteria, contact us for more information.”

The deadline for applications is Friday, May 13.

Application advice sessions will take place at the 4 Together Partnership office, on Haig Terrace, in Ferryhill, on Monday, April 18, from 2pm to 4pm, and Wednesday, April 20, from 5pm to 7pm.

To book a place, call 0300 0267210 or by email fouraap.durham.gov.uk.