COMMUNITY groups and projects aimed at improving the local area will have a chance to appeal to the public in a bid to get a share of funding.

The Durham Area Action Partnership (AAP) is holding a fifth event aimed at getting the community involved in decisions around which local projects should get funding.

The AAP, which is funded by Durham County Council, has a pot of money available to projects in Durham City and its outlying villages, including Shincliffe, Bearpark, Witton Gilbert, West Rainton, Pittington, Shadforth, Sherburn Hill and Village and Ludworth.

It is asking for groups and individuals involved in projects that are eligible for funding to apply ahead of a forum in November, when members of the public will be invited to vote.

AAP chairman Chris Tindale said: “The feedback from members of the public is that they feel this is a good way of allocating public money to local organisations. The organisations that take part feel it raises their profile and if they are successful in securing enough votes it means their project goes ahead.’

Groups can apply to take part in the forum by emailing dcaap@durham.gov.uk or calling 03000 267207.

Applications must be made by the end of September. The voting event will take place in Durham Town Hall, in the Market Place, on Saturday, November 4.