PROJECTS across Berkshire may be getting a little more help thanks to a community improvements fund set up by South Western Railway.

The train services' Communities Improvement Fund (CCIF) set up on July 10, aims to invest £5.3 million into community projects in the next two years.

South Western Railway (SWR) are welcoming applications from local charities, organisations and projects who need a cash boost to improve its services for people who benefit in the community.

Andy Mellors, managing director for SWR, said: "The CCIF investment fund will help support projects that make a real difference to people’s lives in communities across our network."

The company is looking for projects based on its railway network in order to make a 'positive' change to people's lives.

Successful bids can include a wide range of schemes and activities, such as diversity and outreach projects to help with open rail travel for more communities, educational campaigns, cycle schemes through to full-scale buildings and refurbishment projects.

The campaign runs every two years and they want to hear from local authorities, rail user groups, charities and smaller organisations for their ideas.

Andy added: "The £5.3m fund is now open for applications and I encourage local authorities, community groups and other organisations to think about how the fund could address, educate or engage on social issues in order to make a real difference to people lives.

"No matter how big or small the project, we look forward to receiving your applications."

Visit:

https://www.southwesternrailway.com/CCIF

to apply before the September 6 deadline.