COMMUNITY groups in the Chiltern district are being reminded they can apply for funding to help them continue to provide vital services to the area.

Last year, Chiltern District Council supported 40 local community groups to the tune of nearly £35,000, helping them deliver services to all ages - from art groups, to town centre regeneration, music therapy to employment support programmes.

Grants provided by Chiltern District Council can qualify some groups to then go on and apply for additional external funding, which the council says last year levered in more than £100,000 for local community organisations. And now is the time for groups to be considering whether they may like to apply for grant assistance in 2014.

One organisation which received £500 towards continuing its social activities, was the Good Companions Older People's Group in Little Chalfont.

They invited Chiltern District Councillor Peter Hudson, Cabinet member for Community, along to their Christmas party, so he could see firsthand how local residents enjoy and benefit from their regular events.

Cllr Hudson said: "These community grants make a huge difference to the quality of people's lives, supporting local groups which provide an amazing range of services to our residents, many vulnerable and in need of support. As a Council we are delighted to support their work."

The next round of community grant funding starts in May 2014. To find out more about the scheme or how to express an interest, please call 01494 732102 or email community@chiltern.gov.uk