COMMUNITY groups are being urged to saddle up and apply for grants to boost the atmosphere of the East Cleveland Klondike Grand Prix cycling event.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has joined up with the Tees Valley Community Foundation to launch the scheme.

Any sport, community or musical groups who want to give the Klondike – which is returning on Sunday, April 29 – an added layer of entertainment or celebration can bid for a grant of up to £1,000 from an overall pot of £15,000.

Cllr Carl Quartermain, the council's cabinet member for culture, tourism and communications, said: “It is great that we can work with the Tees Valley Community Foundation to support groups across the borough, the Klondike is one of the biggest events the borough will hold this year so it is the perfect time for groups of all sizes to put themselves forward and showcase themselves.”

Hugh McGouran, Chief Executive of the Tees Valley Community Foundation, said: “We are looking forward to working with the council to support groups across the borough, they do great work every day of the year and this grant scheme is the perfect opportunity for groups to showcase themselves to the hundreds of cyclists and spectators who will be watching the Klondike in April.”

Cllr Mary Lanigan, Chair of the East Cleveland Big Local, said: “We are delighted that the Tees Valley Community Foundation is working with community groups in East Cleveland to showcase their talents to thousands of spectators. Big Local is looking forward to hosting the East Cleveland Klondike Grand Prix at the end of April, which is brilliant for the area.”

Any constituted group wishing to submit an application should visit www.teesvalleyfoundation.org.uk for further information. The closing date for applications is Wednesday, February 28.