Substantial grants are on offer from two windfarm developments to help community groups improve their environment.

The grants from the Glassmoor Local Environment Fund are open to groups from Whittlesey, Pondersbridge, Ramsey Mereside, Eastrea and Coates. Any applications in the current bidding process must be in by January 5, 2015.

Money is also available from the Whitemill Environment Fund, a new fund set up for groups in Coldham, Ring’s End, Friday Bridge and Elm. Bids for them close on January 30, 2015.

Any application for either fund must demonstrate both environmental and education benefit for the local community.

Most of the grants are between £500 and £3,000. A wide range of projects could be eligible, including ones promoting energy efficiency, wildlife conservation, waste recycling and car sharing. Other ideas are welcome.

Previous successful bids for the Glassmoor fund include a community wildlife garden, LED lighting for an indoor bowls club and a compost toilet for an allotment.

The funds are to continue for the life of the wind turbines, estimated to be about 25 years.

For application forms and advice, call Rebecca Robinett, Fenland District Council’s Street Pride coordinator, on 01354 654321 or e-mail rrobinett@fenland.gov.uk.