COMMUNITY groups are being invited to bid for a slice of £20,000 for work to put pride back into their district.

The Pride In Easington campaign offers grants of up to £3,000 for groups trying to improve the environment or quality of life in the district.

The grant scheme was launched on Thursday by Pride in Easington officer Michelle Morton and members of Shotton Colliery Community Partnership. Groups have until Wednesday, January 24, to bid for a share of the grants.

Ms Morton said: "Pride in Easington is a major project to get people in the district taking pride in their area again.

"The council is already doing a lot of work to keep the district tidy, but we really want members of the community to join in - and we're hoping the community grants will encourage people to do their bit."

Schemes must fit the awards criteria of having a lasting effect on the creation of a cleaner, greener, safer district.

For an application form, contact the Pride in Easington team on 0191-527-0501 ext 4516 or 4517.