Community groups and charities in Thetford have been invited to apply for a share of £25,000 worth of funding made available by Thetford Town Council.

This comes as a result of a budget underspend and will be allocated through a Participatory Budgeting process, allowing citizens to vote and decide who receives the funding.

The fund, named the 'Unlocking Thetford’s Potential Fund', was agreed upon at a Town Council meeting on Tuesday, January 30, as a way to support local community groups amidst the cost of living crisis and it's impact on finances.

Councillor Terry Jermy, chairman of the Council’s Finance and Personnel Committee said: "Through prudent financial management we are in a very fortunate position to have a budget underspend this year.

"We’ve made allowances for other cost pressures but felt that we wanted to provide additional support for local good causes as we know there are many that undertake vital work across Thetford and additional funding would be a tremendous boost to them."

Community groups and charities will need to comply with the usual Thetford Town Council rules regarding eligibility.

These include having a constitution and bank account, and if relevant, providing risk assessments and insurances for any activities or work for which they seek financing for.

Applications must be submitted before 5pm on Friday, March 1, 2024.

Details of the public meeting to decide the successful applicants will be announced in due course.

The mayor of Thetford, Stuart Wright, said: "This new fund gives an opportunity for Thetford Town Council to support local groups.

"We look forward to numerous applications that reflect the diverse voluntary organisations in the town."

Those interested can get more information and apply by contacting the council via phone at 01842 754247 or email at mail@thetfordtowncouncil.gov.uk.