CLEOBURY Mortimer's MP is encouraging local communities to nominate and apply for cash from Lloyds Bank Community Fund.

Around 1,400 good causes in 350 communities across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands are set to benefit from the community fund this year, with grants of up to £3,000, supporting projects and services that make a difference to local communities.

More than 2.3 million votes were cast for the 2013 Community Fund, with 380,000 people benefitting from an award.

Conservative Philip Dunne said: “Across South Shropshire we are fortunate to have a wide range of community groups working to make a positive difference to their local area.

"This money could make a significant difference to these groups, so I urge local people to make a nomination to take part in this year’s community fund programme.”

Nominations can be made online at lloydsbank.com/communityfund. Once nominated, each group will be invited to directly apply to the community fund online. Nominations will close on April 30, with applications remaining open until May 9.

Lloyds Bank is now 24.9% owned by the taxpayer, following the recent sale of a 7.8% stake by the Government.