GROUPS from the voluntary, community and faith sectors have been urged to apply for grants from Lancashire County Council.

Its Local Initiative Fund has reopened for applications, with almost £170,000 available.

Its covers the 12 districts, including Burnley, Hyndburn, Pendle, Rossendale, Ribble Valley and Chorley.

The deadline for applications is May 16. The scheme provides grants of between £1,000 and £5,000.

Assistant county secretary Roy Jones said: “Last year, it supported projects including drumming and dance workshops, sports, and arts workshops.”