COMMUNITY groups across the borough will benefit from a £600,000 fund that is being rolled out over the next three years.

Each of the borough's six townships will be allocated £100,000 over a three-year period.

In September, individuals and community groups will be able to apply for their share of up to £10,000 to improve people’s lives, health and wellbeing.

Bury Council first announced that it would create this social capital fund when it set its budget earlier this year.

The council’s neighbourhood engagement team will support successful applicants to deliver their projects and measure how they affect people’s lives.

Cllr Tamoor Tariq, cabinet member for communities and safer neighbourhoods, said: “The social capital fund will go a long way in supporting our voluntary community and faith sector in the borough. Each township will be able to shape their own communities in meeting their individual challenges.

“I am confident this fund will enable communities to unleash new potential and ensure local people are at the heart of local solutions.”

Applications will open on September 3 and close on October 5. For more information, call 0161 253 7455 or, email neighbourhood.engagement@bury.gov.uk.