AFTER the good news the Palace Theatre would receive almost £1 million of Heritage Lottery Fund cash for its restoration, Redditch Council is encouraging other organisations to apply.

The only other heritage lottery money granted in Redditch went towards the restoration of St Stephen's Church Spire in 2001.

But per head of population, Redditch has received less HLF cash than any other town in the region.

A council spokesman said: "HLF's development team are working hard to change these statistics by offering face-to- face advice and support to anyone thinking about a heritage project.

"Grants from £5,000 upwards are available and are not subject to entry deadlines or 'batched grouping'."

Anyone interested in hearing more about the type of funding opportunities available can call Chris on 0121 616 6870