Community groups in County Durham have ‘cleaned up’ in a prestigious regional awards scheme. Nine Durham County Council-supported groups from the county’s towns and villages have been recognised through the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ (IYN) programme.
IYN is part of the RHS’ Britain in Bloom competition and gives certificates of achievement to groups which work to ‘green up’ their communities.
All nine schemes received up to £500 towards their work through the council’s Community Grant Scheme, which is currently open to applications from volunteer led environmental groups.
Pauline Walker, the council’s senior civic pride officer, said: “We’re thrilled with the hard work put in by all volunteers and community groups and the results of the IYN scheme are testament to the commitment everyone has shown in developing their environmental projects.
“There is still time for community groups to get funding for an environmental improvement scheme next year, so we urge people to apply.”
Cllr Brian Stephens, added: “It’s incredible that people have given up their precious time in volunteering and have either cleaned up, greened up or produced healthy produce for the benefit of their communities. Many of the schemes will provide long-lasting environmental benefits to all who live or work in, or visit these areas.
“There is a chance for everyone to get involved in improving their local environment at grassroots level and we’d encourage people to contact us if they’re interested in how.”
Groups wishing to apply for Community Grant Scheme funding in 2018 must do so by Friday, 8th December.
Visit www.durham.gov.uk/itsyourneighbourhood to find out more and download an application form. Alternatively, email civicpride@durham.gov.uk or call 03000 261 000 to request an application pack.
