THERE is still time for local groups to apply for funding to help with community initiatives.

Worcestershire County Council is encouraging applications to be submitted for the final round of the Ministry of Defence's community covenant grant scheme.

The scheme funds local projects that bring together the civilian and armed forces communities.

Recent funding successes include £70,000 awarded to Hereford and Worcester Army Cadets to build a new range and improve facilities at their residential training camp at Tyddesley Wood near Pershore and £6,000 to Worcestershire Partnership to produce a series of booklets aimed at helping service veterans and their families navigate healthcare, employment, housing, education and other support available in Worcestershire.

Councillor Lucy Hodgson, cabinet member for localism and communities, said: "It's great news that Worcestershire has been able to secure so much funding despite no longer have any barracks in the county. We do however still have a sizeable armed forces community with just under 700 residents currently serving in the armed forces and over 2,600 veterans living in the county.

"I therefore wholeheartedly encourage more groups to come forward and apply for this last opportunity for funding under the current scheme."

To apply for funding or for more information visit www.worcestershirepartnership.org.uk or call 01905 822836.