A WHOPPING £30,000 in funding is being awarded to creative and culturally significant events in Colchester.

Colchester City Council's Cultural and Creative Events Fund is returning for 2024, partnering with the North East Essex Health and Wellbeing Alliance.

The 2023 fund supported 26 various projects, from major festivals to skill-building initiatives for residents in the city.

This year, however, the funding will support culturally significant events and activities in Colchester, with a focus on health and wellbeing, and inclusivity.

Councillor Michelle Burrows, portfolio holder for leisure, culture and heritage, said: "The Cultural and Creative Events Fund continues to deliver on the City’s Cultural Strategy, supporting our creative sector, nurturing local talent and celebrating our communities.

"Together with our partner, the North East Essex Health and Wellbeing Alliance, we are eager to support innovative projects that not only showcase the arts and heritage in Colchester but also contribute to the health and wellbeing of our residents.

"This fund is a testament to our commitment to building a culturally rich and inclusive city for all."

Applications for the fund, delivering grants from £250 to £1,500, are now open, with projects taking place between May 1, 2024, and April 30, 2025 being eligible.

Each venture must either deliver quality cultural experiences to local audiences, foster local creative talent, explore local heritage, draw visitors to Colchester, or celebrate its diverse communities.

Projects must also showcase how they will improve residents' health and wellbeing, and those catering to older people will receive priority.

Laura Taylor-Green, director of the North East Essex Health and Wellbeing Alliance, said: “I am delighted that this fund is once again available offering grants for projects which support local people’s health and wellbeing.

"Within the alliance, we have seen first-hand the significant and positive contribution that arts and culture can have on people’s self-esteem, especially since the pandemic.

"This fund also strongly fits in with our agenda of reducing health inequalities so I would encourage local people to consider how they could bid for this money to support their work.”

Applications can be submitted online via the city council website until February 5, 2024.