GROUPS are being invited to apply for funding through the recently launched Sustainable Development Fund, accessed through the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) team.

The £5,000 fund was first created for areas of outstanding natural beauty in 2005 to encourage individuals, community groups and businesses to work together to develop practical and sustainable solutions to the management of their activities.

The range of projects previously supported in the Tamar Valley include the enhancement of village halls, wildlife conservation projects, small scale renewable energy schemes, water-based recreation, advice for rural businesses and a number of education-based projects.

In recent years the Sustainable Development Fund has been unavailable in the Tamar Valley, largely de to national reduction in protected landscape funding, but the AONB team is delighted to offer the fund again this year, despite facing other cuts.

Corinna Woodall, AONB manager, said: 'Our community provides us with much support and enthusiasm in our efforts to conserve and enhance this wonderful valley, and we want to give something back.

'We will do our utmost to offer the fund in some capacity again next year too.'

Anyone with an idea for a project, where £200 to £500 would help, should get in touch. Closing date for applications is Saturday, August 31 and applicants will be notified in September. Successful projects should aim for completion by January 2014.

Visit http://www.tamarvalley.org.uk">www.tamarvalley.org.uk for guidance notes and application forms. Applicants are strongly advised to discuss project ideas with AONB staff before submitting a completed application to ensure eligibility. Call Corinna Woodall on 01822 835030 or email [email protected]">[email protected]