Struggling community groups can apply for grants of up to £3,000.

Hertsmere Borough Council is offering the community or voluntary groups in need of better facilities or new equipment the chance to apply for their community grants scheme.

Last year, the scheme distributed more than £57,000 in community grants to 34 organizations and the money has been used to train volunteers and hire venues.

Hilary Shade, head of partnerships and community engagement, which oversees the scheme, said: "I'd encourage any local group that needs a helping hand to get in touch with us to find out if they would be entitled to receive money towards organisational or project costs.

“Increasingly, our emphasis is on helping communities to help themselves. If you are a community group or charity operating in the Hertsmere area, in need of extra funds, then now is the time to apply.”

The scheme is open for applications until Friday, June 12.

To apply for a community grant visit www.hertsmere.gov.uk/communitygrants, call 020 8207 7801 or email corporate.support@hertsmere.gov.uk