COMMUNITY groups are being urged to apply for funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund for local history projects in the North-East.

The funding available for each project could be up to £837. The projects must run from April to December.

The Heritage Lottery Fund's Tomorrow History Project on Teesside is being organised in partnership with Stockton Borough Council, Middlesbrough Borough Council, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, and other library authorities in the North-East.

David Parry, Tomorrow's History Project manager, said: "This is an excellent opportunity for those community groups who have always wanted to produce something lasting, on any aspect of the local heritage, to apply for the funding to do so."

Projects could explore the history of a community or school, a religious group, local architecture or traditions.

It will allow organisations to research, record and publicise community history or traditions within their borough.

Organisations or community groups must be non-profit making, have a bank account and a constitution, and be able to contribute £200 towards the cost of the project being put forward.

The projects could also produce a publication, display or exhibition, which should be available freely to the local community.

For an application form or further information contact (01642) 393994.