Sports and community associations in Shepton are encouraged to apply for grants that could provide up to £10,000 to initiate new fitness and sporting activities in their regions.

The £500,000 fund, introduced by the National Grid Electricity Distribution, aims to energise communities, enhance health, and promote broader participation in local sports and physical exercise.

Registered companies and charities can apply for a maximum grant of £10,000, while unregistered organisations can receive up to £2,000. This opportunity enables grassroots organisations to make a lasting difference in their local communities. The 'Active Communities' programme forms the latest instalment of the Community Matters Fund, a scheme run by National Grid's distribution arm, which has distributed almost £5 million to worthy causes since 2021.

Sports clubs and various groups intending to offer physical activities, from recognised sports to unconventional exercise forms, are all encouraged to apply. Potential projects could range from seated exercise classes, and walking clubs, to the inception of new community basketball teams. The fund is keen on diversity and applications that cater to community needs, particularly from organisations in economically disadvantaged areas or those working with underrepresented and marginalised communities.

The fund welcomes diversity and applications that meet community needs, particularly from organisations in economically disadvantaged areas or serving underrepresented and marginalised groups.

Graham Halladay, Operations Director at National Grid, said: "The 'Active Communities' fund represents our commitment to promoting wellbeing and physical health for people of all ages across our regions. We want to create a legacy of delivering positive and sustainable change by bringing people together through physical activity to improve individual and community wellbeing - and having fun along the way.

"We welcome applications from groups of all sizes who are using sport or exercise to unlock physical and social benefits. With this fund, we want to help groups foster new community connections and promote social good through increased physical activity. From chair aerobics and walking football to establishing a new girls' rugby team, we're looking forward to receiving their ideas and applications."

Potential applications for the 'Active Communities' fund could encompass:

· Assistance in establishing new active groups or initiating and extending activities within existing clubs and associations, intending to unite diverse communities and groups.

· Training courses for volunteers to transition into coaches and mentors for individuals struggling with mental or physical health conditions.

· Minor facility modifications to remove accessibility hindrances for individuals with mobility challenges.

· Innovative methods to enhance participation and engagement with physical activity and exercise in your community.

The final date for applications is Friday, 28 July.

To learn more about the 'Active Communities' fund and submit your application, please visit www.nationalgrid.co.uk/community-matters-fund.