Grants are available to help improve the lives of people living or working in Dorset.

Cultural, sporting and community organisations can now apply for money from Dorset Council’s Leisure Development Fund.

Cllr Tony Alford, Dorset Council portfolio holder for customer, community and regulatory services, said: “I am very glad that Dorset Council will be supporting efforts to enrich the lives of people who live and work in Dorset.

“I would like to encourage good causes and community groups to apply for funds.”

Grants of up to £5,000 are available from the £70,000 fund and the closing date for applications is November 10.

Applications can be made for up to 20 per cent of a project’s cost and the money can be used for one-off or capital projects.

For more information, visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk, call 01305 252250 or email leisuredwp@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk