Mason Moore | Hinckley Reporter | 22 May 2024

HINCKLEY and Bosworth’s voluntary and community groups are being encouraged to apply for new grant funding to commemorate the borough council’s half-century anniversary.

The newly-launched grant is available to help groups join in with the celebrations.

The funding is for up to £500, and can be used to organise activities or events held from 1 July to 1 December, buying commemorative benches or trees, going towards wildflower gardens, or planting anniversary orchards to mark the occasion.

Food and refreshments included in applications will only be supported up to £100.

The grants are not available for those holding private street parties.

To apply and qualify, groups must demonstrate they are an existing or established group, and the celebrations ‘are an extension of an existing offer’ to the community.

Applications will be assessed on a regular basis in order for funds to be allocated in a timely way. The final date to apply for the grant is 1 November. The funds will close when all have been allocated, which could be before the stated closing date.

Coun. Michael Mullaney, the Borough Council’s Executive Member for Housing and Community Safety, said: “This year is a special one for Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, as we celebrate the council’s 50th year of service.

“We hope this gives everyone across the borough the chance to join in the celebrations in their own local community.

“It’s also a great way to celebrate the fantastic work that community and voluntary groups do in our borough every day and thank those volunteers who do so much to help others.”

For further details, and to apply, visit the portal on the council’s website.