COMMUNITIES in and around Bromsgrove are being urged to follow Dodford's example and snap up cash handouts.

Grants of up to £2,000 are now available through Worcestershire County Council's countryside projects team and one successful applicant this year is Dodford with Grafton Parish Council.

The council is undertaking the second phase of planting distinctive oak trees at village entrances as part of its Gateway Project.

The Discovering Worcestershire Community Grants scheme encourages communities to identify, protect and celebrate what is special about their area.

The grants provide financial help to communities wanting to develop a project in their area and can help at every stage of its development from initial consultation to practical implementation.

The grants are divided into two categories - start up and implementation.

Start-up grants are for a maximum of £1,000 and can be linked to costs such as project promotion, advertising to gain community interest, the cost of a speaker or expert assistance to advise or encourage community projects.

The maximum implementation grant is £2,000, which can be spent on materials, labour and hiring equipment.

Projects must be inspired and led by community groups and more information and free advice are available from the countryside service projects team on (01905) 766493.