Time is running out for local charities to apply for funding from the Gannett Foundation.

Last year the foundation, which is the charitable arm of the Wiltshire Gazette and Herald's parent company, donated more than £10,000 to worthy causes across the county. Charities have until tomorrow to make their bid to swell their coffers.

The Swindon Ten to Eighteen Project has already applied. It aims to solve problems for young people but the charity needs more money to expand its work.

STEP, based in Prospect Place, Old Town, helps around 400 young people every year.

Anger management, behavioural problems, low self-esteem and substance misuse are just some of the difficulties tackled through advice and support groups. Joanna Bryant, STEP's operations manager, said: "We point young people in the right direction and give them new opportunities."

STEP employs 11 staff and it costs around £200,000 to run the service.

Despite limited resources, the project helps teenagers organise camping trips.

Forms are available from the Gazette reception at 14 Market Place, Devizes. They can also be downloaded from our website at www.thisiswiltshire.co.uk

Completed forms should be sent to The Gannett Foundation Fund, 100 Victoria Road, Old Town, Swindon, SN1 3BE.

Or for further information telephone Jacqui Taylor on (01380) 723501.