Grants of up to £1,000 are on offer to groups to help encourage more people to take up sport and healthy leisure activities.

Tendring District Council (TDC) is offering the grants of between £200-£1,000 to existing sports clubs and groups and organisations – or those wishing to start a new group – in a bid to help drive healthier living in the area.

The project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Alex Porter, TDC Cabinet Member for Leisure and Tourism, said he hoped for a strong response from groups and clubs.

“Building upon the success of the Sport England Local Delivery Pilot here in Tendring, we’re keen to encourage more people into healthy lifestyles, as it’s something which is good for your wellbeing and reduces pressure on things like GP surgeries,” Councillor Porter said.

“We hope these grants will allow clubs and groups to expand and welcome in new people; whether that’s through buying more equipment or perhaps operating on additional nights of the week, for example.

“So if you’re part of a group or club and think you could benefit, apply now!”

To be eligible grants must be intended to widen participation, and groups must be not-for-profit and located within Tendring. Funding cannot be used for Public Liability Insurance, refreshments, debt repayments, staff costs or social occasions.

The first round of applications is open until 11.59pm on Sunday, 5 March – to apply visit the TDC website at https://www.tendringdc.gov.uk/leisure/spf-grants

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