THE Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Partnership this week announced that the sustainable development fund is open once again for small grants to support projects that help to conserve and enhance the AONB.

This year there is £5,000 in total available for grant requests for projects between £200-£500.

The 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 exciting education-based projects.

Corinna Woodall, AONB manager, said: 'Despite further cuts to our funding, we are determined to be able to offer the grant again this year, as we saw from last year's projects that a little bit of money can go a long way and make a real difference to the communities , wildlife and heritage of the Tamar Valley.'

If you have an idea for a project, where £200-£500 would help, please get in touch.

The closing date for applications is June 30. Successful applicants will be notified in July and successful projects must be completed by December 2014.

Please visit http://www.tamarvalley.org.uk">www.tamarvalley.org.uk for guidance notes/application forms. Applicants are strongly advised to discuss project ideas with AONB staff before submitting a completed application to ensure eligibility.

Tamar Valley AONB Service will be holding a free workshop for anyone interested in applying to the fund on April 29, from 5.30pm until 7pm. Tamar Valley AONB priorities will be discussed and assistance in completing the application form will be available. Please email [email protected]">[email protected] or call 01822 835030 to book.

For further information please contact Corinna Woodall, AONB manager, on 01822 835030 or email [email protected]">[email protected]