THE charitable arm of Gannett, the multi-national organisation that owns the Evening Advertiser, is again offering thousands of pounds worth of grant aid to community groups.

Grants for between £1,000 and £5,000 are on offer for applications involving education and neighbourhood improvements, economic development, youth development, community problem solving, assistance to disadvantaged people, environmental conservation and cultural enrichment.

Particular priority will be given to bids for equipment and running costs of projects that give help to homeless people, after-school activities, youth organisations and community safety initiatives.

Although most grants will be for between £1,000 and £5,000, larger grants may be made for exceptional projects.

Applicants will need to be registered charities or have applied for charitable status. They will need to show their work benefits the community.

Successful applicants will be expected to co-operate on publicising the grants.

Applications must be submitted on a form that can be picked up from the reception of the Evening Advertiser's offices at 100 Victoria Road, Old Town.

To apply online click here.

The completed form should reach the Evening Advertiser's office by September 27. Post to the Editor Simon O'Neill, Evening Advertiser, 100 Victoria Road, Old Town, SN1 3BE.

The grants will be announced in December.