CHARITIES from all over East Lancashire have staked their claims for a grant from the Gannett Foundation.

The Lancashire Telegraph has received a string of applications from a number of worthy causes after the charitable arm of Gannett Co Inc, the parent company of Newsquest Media Group which owns the newspaper, said it was once again offering grants.

The Foundation supports projects, which must be registered charities, which take a creative approach to issues such as education and neighbour- hood improvements, economic development, youth development, local problem-solving, assistance to disadvantaged or disabled people, environmental conservation and cultural enrichment.

And this year we have heard from a number of organisations who work with ethnic minority groups and young people.

There were also applications from religious groups, sporting organisations and health-related charities.

Assistant editor Emma Broom said: “The Gannett Foundation grants have always been very well received and this year was no different.

“At a time when there’s been quite a squeeze on the voluntary sector and its funding, and charitable organisations are being lent on to do even more than ever, the Gannett money will certainly make a huge difference to the chosen recipients. Thank you to everyone who took the time to make their application.”

Typically, awards made are between £5,000 and £10,000 for adventurous projects but the Foundation will entertain applications of any size.

In recent years, awards include £1,180 to Age UK Blackburn for two motorised recliner chairs, £21,750 to kit out Rossendale and Pendle Mountain Rescue Team with weatherproof clothing, and funding for a churchyard renovation in Nelson.

The next step will be for the trustees of the Gannett Foundation to meet on Thursday, November 13 to consider the nominations and successful applicants will be advised after this date.