COMMUNITY leaders in County Durham's former coalfields have until the end of this month to apply for a grant.

The Coalfields Community Spirit Millennium Award is funded by the Millennium Commission and will give recognition and training to up to 140 people committed to regenerating their area.

It is one of more than 100 award schemes run by partner organisations in the country.

County Durham Foundation is the partner for the coalfields award and is inviting applications from people with good ideas for community projects.

No formal qualifications are required but applicants will need to show that they are already involved in voluntary activities or have strong personal motivation to develop a project.

Up to 140 awards of about £4,000 per person will be made over two years to fund training and personal development, mentoring and networking.

Projects could include after- school clubs, community transport and credit unions.

Application packs are available from the foundation on 0191-383 0055. Applications for the first round must be received by July 31.