Organisations in the Dorset Council area which have a sports, arts or heritage project or event they wish to get off the ground in the New Year are invited to apply for funding. However, time is running out as applications to round four of the Community and Culture Project Fund will close at midnight on 9 January.

This funding could provide up to 80 per cent of total project fund up to a maximum of £5,000.

Community organisations with a focus on the cost-of-living challenge for vulnerable people and those most in need are also encouraged to apply.

Cllr Laura Beddow, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Culture, Communities and Customer Services, said: “This funding can help to make a real difference to people living in our communities.

“We encourage applications from a wide range of organisations, including arts, museums, heritage, community, physical activity and play activities.

“We also want to hear from groups who have a focus on supporting people through the cost-of-living challenge, but also welcome applications from other groups too.”

In previous funding rounds this year, 34 organisations have benefited from the grants.

For more information criteria, how to apply and support with your application, visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/community-and-culture-project-fund.

Voluntary and community sector organisations can also apply for the Capital Leverage Fund – grants for capital projects including improvements, refurbishments and new builds for community buildings and spaces. People can apply for a capital grant of between £1,000 and £25,000 to fund up to 20 per cent of the total project costs. Applicants must apply using the council’s online application form before midnight on the 6 January to be considered.