CHARITIES in need of a cash boost can apply for funds from the Wiltshire Times' parent company.

The Gannett Foundation, the charitable arm of our US parent company is looking for groups to benefit from the latest round of grants.

The money is available to registered charities from across west and north Wiltshire.

The foundation, which gives grants of between £1,000 and £5,000 to good causes, is particularly keen to hear from charities working with disabled people or children.

Wiltshire Times editor Andy Sambidge said: "There are many charities doing great work in this area and these grants could really make a difference to a lot of people.

"I would advise you to follow the requirements and fill out the application form carefully and to return it to the Wiltshire Times offices as soon as possible."

The grants are given out twice a year and amongst those to

benefit last year were the Melksham Physically Handicapped and Able Bodied Club (PHAB) and the Calne Physically Handicapped Club.

Melksham PHAB applied for a grant to buy a computer, while the Calne club used its money to pay for a Christmas dinner for its 70 members.

The Gannett Foundation is geared towards supporting projects taking an innovative approach to issues such as education and neighbourhood improvements, youth development, environmental conservation and assisting disadvantaged members of the community.

Applications are available from the Wiltshire Times offices or by calling (01225) 352491.

Completed forms should be sent to The Gannett Foundation Fund, c/o Morwenna Blake, Wiltshire Times, 15 Duke Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 8EF.

l Grants will NOT be given to: individuals; organisations not registered as charities; national or regional organisations, unless the project addresses specific local or community needs; promotion of religious causes; endowment funds; general appeals or multi-year campaigns; medical or research organisations or animal charities.