TIME is running out for local projects to apply for Locality Bid funding.

Almost £300,000 of council cash is up for grabs in this round. And groups have until Monday, October 1, to submit their application forms.

The fund is split into five categories.

Projects in Berwickshire can apply for a share of £48,374; locals in the Cheviot area will battle it out for £50,568; a total of £95,802 has been earmarked for the Eildon area; while £40,080 is on offer in Teviot and Liddesdale and £61,416 in Tweeddale.

Each bid will be assessed, and if it meets the criteria it will go forward to a public vote, which is expected to take place later this year.

Councillor Sandy Aitchison (Ind, Galashiels), pictured, executive member for neighbourhoods and locality services, said: “We would encourage as many people and groups to get their Localities Bid Fund applications submitted ahead of the October 1 deadline.

“We were delighted with the success of the first round which supported a wide variety of groups across the Borders, from parent councils and youth groups to sports clubs and mountain rescue teams.

“This is a chance for you to play your part and improve the lives of people in your communities, so get your applications submitted.”

The first round of the Localities Bid Fund saw over £200,000 allocated to 18 different projects in March this year.